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The newly-appointed Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jenfan_Muswere/">Jenfan Muswere</a>, has made a commitment to liberalise the media sector and introduce various measures involving private players.
After taking his oath of office, Muswere expressed his ministry’s dedication to upholding the constitutional rights to freedom of the media and freedom of access to information.
Replacing <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa/">Monica Mutsvangwa</a>, Muswere faces the significant challenge of repairing the strained relationship between privately owned media outlets and the State. He said:
<blockquote>
I want to assure you that I will be a minister of all media houses given the diversity.
We are mainly focused on nation building, we are mainly focused on ensuring that we have an informed society which is beneficial to President Mnangagwa’s vision 2030.
In that a knowledgeable society with the requisite information is beneficial to nation building so it will be more and more in terms of sharpening of strategic thinking in terms of the transformation of the media sector given the reality that in the context of the fourth industrial revolution you now have other social media platforms.
</blockquote>
Muswere said there is a need to regularise media operations on social media given that more than eight million Zimbabweans now rely on social media for news and credible information.
<blockquote>
There will be a lot of diversity in terms of our approach, in terms of moving away, in terms of collaboration and cooperation and also in terms of fusing the mainstream media and social media platform as we seek to ensure that we inform each and every citizen of this country.
</blockquote>
Muswere also emphasised the importance of infrastructure development throughout the country and highlighted the need for a shared responsibility among all media houses to foster unity among the people of Zimbabwe. He added that there will also be infrastructure development across the country and at the same time a shared responsibility across all media houses as we seek to ensure that we unite the people of Zimbabwe.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

Information Minister Muswere Pledges To Liberalise Media Sector And Involve Private Players

Monica Mutsvangwa has been moved by President Emmerson Mnangagwa from the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development. She replaces Dr Sithembiso Nyoni who is now the Minister of Industry and Commerce.
<h3>Performance in General:</h3>
Mutsvangwa was in the spotlight this year when she failed to respond to basic questions during an interview with <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Newzroom Afrika</a> about the state of the country’s economy and the recently passed <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Criminal Law</a> (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill, also known as the Patriotic Bill.
During the interview, the minister appeared to have difficulty explaining the details of the bill and what it entails. Watch the video below for more:
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 640px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="360" id="video-263616-1" preload="metadata" width="640"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mutsvangwa-PB.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mutsvangwa-PB.mp4">https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mutsvangwa-PB.mp4</a></video></div>
The bill seeks to amend the country’s <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">criminal code</a> and introduce <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">new</a> offences related to undermining the authority of the government, among other things. 
The Bill makes it a crime to participate in any meeting where sanctions or trade boycotts against Zimbabwe are considered or planned, regardless of whether the sanctions are targeted or general.
Similarly, it is a crime to attend a meeting where there is talk of military intervention or the overthrow of the constitutional government in Zimbabwe.
If someone raises these issues at a meeting and you then promote or encourage them, you may be charged with a crime, even if you did not know the agenda beforehand. Punishments for offenders are not specified in the Bill.
Mutsvangwa’s failure to provide a clear explanation of the acronym ZACC (Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission) further raised eyebrows. During an interview with Sophie Mokoena, the International News Editor of SABC News, Mutsvangwa mistakenly referred to ZACC as the “Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Cooperation” and eventually settled for “Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Company.” This incident sparked doubts about her suitability for the position of government spokesperson, as it indicated a lack of understanding regarding a crucial government institution. Many individuals began questioning her suitability for the role in light of this episode.
<h3>Performance Review:</h3>
According to reports, Mutsvangwa was among the ministers who fell short of their targets since last year when they signed performance contracts. The progress of each leader is being monitored and guided by the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), the country’s economic blueprint. Cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries, local authority CEOs, and CEOs of State-owned enterprises all signed performance contracts under the Integrated Results-Based Management System. President Mnangagwa introduced these contracts to promote a culture of high performance among office bearers. The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) stated that the contracts will be evaluated based on delivery, effectiveness, management, and implementation.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Monica Mutsvangwa Moved From The Ministry Of Information

Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, the Minister of Information in Zimbabwe, has officially announced that the inauguration and swearing-in of President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa will take place on Monday, September 4, 2023. In a statement seen by Pindula News, she invited all Zimbabweans to attend the ceremony at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. The Minister said celebrations will be followed by a luncheon at State House for invited dignitaries. The gates will open at 6 am, and transportation will be provided for those in need. She said the inauguration will feature performances by various artists, with Jah Prayzah headlining the event. Additionally, there will be a football match between the Zimbabwe Warriors and the Namibian National Team, known as the Brave Warriors. Read the statement released on September 2, 2023:
<blockquote>
<h3>HE PRESIDENT EMMERSON MNANGAGWA INAUGURATION</h3>
The nation is hereby informed that the inauguration ceremony for His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa will be held on Monday 04 September 2023.
This follows his resounding re-election in the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
The main celebrations will be held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare followed by a luncheon at State House for invited dignitaries_ 
Members of the public who wish to attend are advised that gates open at 6 am and buses are available to transport those in need.
A number of artists are lined up to perform at the inauguration ceremonies which will be headlined by Jah Prayzah. Chief Hwenie Sandra Ndebele and others A football match between the Zimbabwe Warriors and the Namibian National Team known as the Brave Warriors will follow the inauguration ceremony.
All Zimbabweans are welcome to witness this glorious celebration at the National Sports Stadium. Nyika Inovakwa nevene vayo. Ilizwe takhiwa ngabanikazi balo! 
</blockquote>
There were uncertainties surrounding the scheduled event as neither the government nor the ruling party had officially announced it. Some analysts even speculated that the earlier circulated letter attributed to James Manzou, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, might be fake. They said the purpose of the alleged letter was to compel the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), which had rejected the 23-24 August 2023 elections, to approach the courts. If the CCC had taken legal action, it could have halted the inauguration since it must occur when there are no pending cases. However, some analysts discouraged the CCC from going to court, claiming that they were influenced by the ruling party, ZANU PF, and would ultimately validate the “fraudulent” elections. 
The CCC has now decided to abandon its legal challenge against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declared election victory. Instead, they are relying on diplomatic pressure. The CCC has called for fresh elections under the supervision of “impartial” bodies rather than the perceived biased Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Mutsvangwa Confirms President-elect Mnangagwa's Inauguration On Monday 4 September 2023

The Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, emphasised that the current state of independence, democracy, freedom, peace, and tranquillity in Zimbabwe should not be taken for granted. She highlighted the significant sacrifices and bloodshed that led to these achievements.
In her remarks to commemorate Heroes Day, Senator Mutsvangwa who is a veteran of the liberation struggle, recounted the tragic events of the Nyadzonya Massacre on August 9, 1976. She criticised Western imperialists for hypocritically claiming to champion democracy and human rights while being complicit in such atrocious acts.
Furthermore, Senator Mutsvangwa urged the nation, particularly the youth, to protect the country’s sovereignty and the gains made during the liberation struggle.
She expressed her concern that the experiences of liberation struggle veterans are often overlooked, with their valuable stories being lost.
Remembering her personal losses during the war, including the tragic death of her friend Veronica Chigumira and witnessing the fate of her schoolmate Joe Gwabuya, who was swept away by the Pungwe river while fleeing from Rhodesian Forces, Senator Mutsvangwa emphasized the unbreakable bond between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, forged through blood and sacrifice.
Many young Zimbabweans appear to take independence for granted due to several factors. These include a lack of firsthand experience with the struggles of the liberation war, inadequate historical education, and pressing socioeconomic challenges. Additionally, political disillusionment has contributed to a diminished appreciation for independence as they feel that the challenges faced by their grandparents during the colonial era are still being experienced today.
Government critics claim the black government has become the new oppressor, violating the liberation war values of equality, justice, freedom of expression, inclusivity, and socioeconomic empowerment. They argue that the government’s actions contradict the principles it fought for, betraying the aspirations of the liberation struggle.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Minister Mutsvangwa Says Zimbabwe's Independence, Democracy, And Peace Shouldn't Be Taken For Granted

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa">Monica Mutsvangwa</a> insisted that the controversial “Patriotic Bill”, legally known as the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Bill, is not meant to suppress freedom of expression.
The bill, which was passed by Parliament on 07 June this year, has been heavily criticised by civil society organisations, including Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders.
Speaking to the South African publication <a href="https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/zimbabwes-controversial-new-patriotic-bill-just-about-loving-your-country-says-minister-20230625">City Press</a> in Randburg on Friday, Mutsvangwa said the proposed law was meant to deal with citizens conspiring with outsiders to overthrow the government and campaigning for sanctions. She said:
<blockquote>
I don’t accept that it is controversial. It’s okay for people to talk [about it]. That’s freedom of expression…
People who talk about it [the bill] as being controversial; I’d like to understand what it is they are saying.
Is it good to cooperate with people planning subversion of the constitutionally elected government?
Is it good to cooperate with people who are planning a coup? Is that correct? No.
</blockquote>
Under the Bill, it is a criminal offence for any Zimbabwean citizen to willfully injure the country’s “sovereignty, dignity and independence as a nation”.
Participating in meetings with the intention to promote, advance, encourage, instigate or advocate sanctions or trade boycotts against the country is also prohibited.
Under the proposed new law, those found guilty of being unpatriotic will face up to 10 years in prison or a fine and will be banned from voting and occupying public office, among other penalties.
Mutsvangwa claimed that there had been cases in which citizens would bad-mouth the government because they were paid to do so.
She said being unpatriotic included negative remarks about the scarf that President Emmerson Mnangagwa always wears, which is branded with Zimbabwe’s flag. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
But I say, this is our flag. Why are we not proud of our own flag? I was a diplomat in the US. I lived in an exclusive area. Every house in the US had a flag flying. There’s nothing wrong with loving your country.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Patriotic Bill Is About "Loving Your Country", Negative Remarks About ED Scarf Unpatriotic, Says Mutsvangwa

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Monica Mutsvangwa was this week grilled by South African media as she struggled to defend the Government policies and laws.
Mutsvangwa was interviewed by journalist Cathy Mohlahlana on South African television station, Newzroom Africa, on Thursday night where she had a hard time explaining Zimbabwe’s so-called Patriotic Bill and the apparent refusal by Zimbabwean nationals based in South Africa to return home.
The Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Bill 2022, commonly referred to as the “Patriotic Bill”, criminalizes “wilfully injuring the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe”.
The Bill awaits Presidential assent after it sailed in both Houses of Parliament, that is, the National Assembly and Senate.
Mutsvangwa, who was apparently trying to “clean” Zimbabwe’s image ahead of the 23 August 2023 elections, which she repeatedly erroneously said were just a month away, said:
<blockquote>
The role of that bill is to make sure citizens love their country. That means you cannot go about talking bad about your own country.
Zimbabwe is sovereign and this is not the first country that has that patriotic bill.
That has been going on. We are talking about sanctions on your country, talking about a coup in your country.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa professed ignorance when asked about candidate nomination fees and the subsequent failure of other candidates to file their nomination papers. She said:
<blockquote>
We have not heard of any report of anybody who wanted to file for the Presidential candidate who was not able to do it.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has filed two notices of appeal at the Electoral Court appealing against the decision of the Nomination Court, which rejected <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Linda_Masarira/">Linda Masarira</a> and Elisabeth Valerio’s nomination as presidential candidates.
Masarira and Valerio failed to pay the required US$20,000 fee by the end of Wednesday to register their candidacy for the election. 
Meanwhile, Mutsvangwa denied reports that the Government is trampling on citizens’ fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression, and accused the opposition of victimising journalists. She said:
<blockquote>
We are happy when democracy is being practiced. As a Minister of Information, the mandate was to make sure that I bring Zimbabweans together, we remove all the polarisation which existed. We have been aligning our media laws with the Constitution.
I do not know where this has been happening. The truth of the matter is what I know is we have had some journalists beaten up when they attend opposition rallies and that has been dealt with. 
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa also said all Zimbabweans who are in South Africa are free to return home if it is a “crime” for them to be in South Africa.
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QbrLOH65qY0?feature=oembed" title="Mutsvangwa discusses the state of readiness ahead of Zimbabwe elections" width="640"></iframe></div>

More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Monica Mutsvangwa Grilled By South African Journalist

Self-exiled former Tourism Minister, Dr <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Walter_Mzembi">Walter Mzembi</a>, has said it is madness for the ruling ZANU PF to blame the late former President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Mugabe">Robert Mugabe</a> for the current power crisis.
He made the remarks after ZANU PF spokesperson, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Christopher_Mutsvangwa">Christopher Mutsvangwa</a> claimed that the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zanu-pf-blames-mugabe-for-electricity-crisis/">power crisis that the southern African country is facing is a product of years of neglect</a> within Zimbabwe in particular. Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
The mismanagement, the arm-fisted mismanagement of the last two decades of Mugabe and his G40s obviously has a negative pull.
It is retarding the speed of recovery, but you can’t doubt that recovery is going on.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa’s remarks attracted Mzembi’s wrath. He responded:
<blockquote>
Mugabe ndiye wakakutumai kundotenga maSolar 5KVa Generators eUSD $14 500 iwo achiita USD $3500. Mugabe ndiye wakakutumai kupanana maLoan edzimba USD$500 000 kubva muhomwe yenyika Nyika isina magetsi? HuSpokesperson hwemuBedroom hunonetsa Kwanai Cde! [Is Mugabe the one who told you to buy solar panels 5KVa Generators at US$14 500 when they can be bought at US$3 500? Is he the one giving (Ministers) US$500 000 housing loans from the national purse when there is a power crisis?
(The solar deal is) A ponzi scheme! USD $10 000 profit per installation × 500 000 Civil Servants! Stop this madness, profiteering from a Crisis!
His wife Monica got $500 000 and he also got $500 000 asi Zimbabwe soooo kaaaa.
USD$1million for the Mutsvangwas, 2× 5kva solar Generators, every government freeby they get a double portion moti munhu angasapenga! Uku maComrades he represents varikutatarika nePfumvudza! Nyarara Cde Chris!
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is facing a huge power deficit that has seen ZESA, the local power utility, rolling out a crippling load-shedding schedule that left most parts of the country without power for at least 18 hours daily.
According to a power update by the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), a ZESA subsidiary, Zimbabwe is producing a total of 582MW against a peak demand of 2 200MW.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Mzembi Says It's Madness To Blame Mugabe For Zimbabwe's Power Crisis

Some of Zimbabwe’s embassies around the world are so broke to the extent that they cannot afford flags to display outside, <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/11/some-zimbabwe-embassies-so-broke-they-cant-afford-a-flag-diplomats/">ZimLive.com</a> reported citing diplomats.
Responding to Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa’s comments that ambassadors should “market brand Zimbabwe,” diplomats listed a series of challenges, all caused by lack of funding. diplomats said on Thursday.
The ambassadors are meeting in Bulawayo for a retreat convened by the foreign affairs ministry.
Tadeous Chifamba, Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the United States, said many of Zimbabwe’s embassy buildings were in a state of disrepair. Chifamba said Thursday at the retreat being held at Rainbow Hotel:
<blockquote>
Government support towards the refurbishment of our embassies is needed.
The image of our residences is important as they are the first port of call when we meet our clients as well as host officials. It’s important to project a good image.
</blockquote>
The country’s ambassador to Sweden, Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga, said the best-laid plans would not work without financial backing. She said:
<blockquote>
Where we are we are finding that other countries are moving faster than we are in selling themselves and its largely because they put money into those processes.
</blockquote>
Pointing to the FIFA World Cup which gets underway this month, she wondered if Zimbabwe was doing anything to market itself at the global showcase.
Mutsvangwa had urged the diplomats to market “brand Zimbabwe” to pull more foreign investment and lure tourists.
The minister said the diplomats “have the responsibility of defending and promoting all the aspects of our country – politics, defence, security, culture, investments and trade relations.” 
She added that diplomats are the country’s image as Zimbabwe’s friends, political partners, foes, and all those interested in the country engage diplomats first. Mutsvangwa added:
<blockquote>
 You often deal with Zimbabweans in the diaspora and these are people who play very special roles in brand Zimbabwe excelling.
</blockquote>
James Maridadi, Zimbabwe’s top diplomat to Senegal, voiced concern over what he termed a “lack of information” about Zimbabwe in the west African country.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Diplomats Say Some Zimbabwean Embassies Are So Broke, Cannot Afford Flags

The Zimbabwean cabinet Tuesday set US$150 as the minimum payable wage across all sectors saying it can be paid either in Zimbabwe dollars or foreign currency at the prevailing bank rate.
Speaking during a post-cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
Pertaining to salaries and wages, here are some of the recommendations:- that a guide be provided to all bargaining platforms across all sectors to strive towards pegging the minimum wage at US$150.00 payable either in ZWL$ or at the prevailing bank rate.
</blockquote>
This comes when government workers have since 2019 been at loggerheads with the employer demanding restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540. 
The government resorted to paying workers in local currency in 2019 following the reintroduction of the Zimbabwe dollar in June of that month. 
The Zimbabwe dollar which was pegged at 1: 1 against the USD when it was reintroduced has been shedding value at an unparalleled rate thereby eroding workers’ salaries.
The government says it has no means to pay all its workers in United States Dollars.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Govt Sets US$150 As Minimum Payable Wage Across Sectors

A popular Ghanaian YouTuber, Wode Maya, has said that Zimbabweans who are not well-traveled should stop complaining about Zimbabwe.
Maya, who visited Zimbabwe and stayed for a month, left the country this week. He said the highlight of his visit was the discovery that Zimbabwe is a beautiful country, but that it suffers from negative perceptions peddled by the media and negative people.
Maya addressed the press in the presence of the Minister of Information and Publicity Monica Mutsvangwa and his comments on Zimbabwe were capture by the broadcaster, ZBC. 
Said Maya:
<blockquote>
If you have never travelled outside Zimbabwe, stop complaining about Zimbabwe. Because, listen, the more you travel, the more you cherish your countries. I just want to make this clear. I’ve been to 25 countries and every country i go to, I promote that country in a positive light. I think so many people were saying so many things that they do not know. 
But I’m coming here and I’m just saying that Zimbabwe is not what i expected. Zimbabwe, to me, out of the 25 is the most beautiful one. 
</blockquote>
Maya was however criticised by some Zimbabweans on social media who said that he had been paid by the government to portray Zimbabwe in a positive light while ignoring the serious negative issues of governance and corruption.
Mutsvanga commented as part of the ZBC clip:
<blockquote>
I am very happy as a minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services that we embraced this young man. We are very excited about what he’s been posting. And what he has been talking about is all positive about this country, positive about Africa. We need to talk well about our Africa and it can only be done by us Africans and that’s what Wode Maya is saying.
And it’s good that when he talks about Zimbabwe and he posts these videos as a vlogger and blogger, people who are watching, are not watching it from just a Zimbabwean or somebody from the ministry or government official. This is just a blogger, a pan-Africanist who loves Africa, who wants to make sure that those in the diaspora understand what Africa has to offer to them. So we are very happy.
</blockquote>
Wode Maya has more than 1 million subscribers on YouTube and his several videos on Zimbabwe have been watched more than 100k times  each.

"If you have never travelled outside Zimbabwe, stop complaining," Ghanaian YouTuber Tells Zimbabweans

The Government has admitted that some private contractors have withdrawn their buses and commuter omnibuses from the ZUPCO pool.
While it has not been stated why bus and kombi owners walked away from the ZUPCO franchise, it is understood that late payments, which are made in RTGS dollars, contributed to transporters’ reluctance to work with the public transport utility.
Addressing journalists during a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Service Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet wishes to clarify that Government has not banned the operations of private contractors in the public transportation sector.
While noting the apparent withdrawal of services by some operations, Cabinet wishes to state that no effort is being spared in ensuring that the inconvenience to the travelling public is minimised.
Government would like to assure the nation that ZUPCO is engaging with contractors with a view to ensuring that all arrears are settled and resolving any outstanding matters.
In addition, more ZUPCO buses that were undergoing licencing have since been cleared and are now plying various routes.
</blockquote>
Commuters have been experiencing transport challenges, especially in urban areas since the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) launched an operation targeting unlicensed taxis (mushikashika).
Mutsvangwa said Cabinet decided that ZUPCO buses plying intercity routes, such as from Harare to Bulawayo, are now required to service local trips when they return from the highways. She said:
<blockquote>
ZUPCO buses that are travelling on intercity routes are now required to undertake local trips upon return.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa warned that the Government will not relent on its blitz against unlicensed vehicles that have filled the transport void created by the kombi ban. Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
Government has, however, noted with concern the proliferation of unlicensed vehicles (mushikashika) and unroadworthy vehicles commuting various routes.
The public is informed that Government, through the Zimbabwe Republic Police, will enforce the law without fear or favour for the safety of the travelling public. All vehicles without number plates will be impounded.
</blockquote>
In 2020, the  Government enforced ZUPCO’s transport monopoly through Statutory Instrument (SI) 83 of 2020.
It said the move was aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus but critics argue that the ban on private buses and kombis was meant to manage the public transport sector following the January 2019 fuel riots.
<h4>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Govt Says Private Contractors Are Withdrawing Their Buses From ZUPCO

President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday sent a condolence message to the Mutsvangwa family following the death of Paidamoyo Nonica Mutsvangwa.
Nonica (10) was a granddaughter to Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa and ZANU PF national spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa.
Nonica was a learner at Bishoplea Primary School. She was killed in a road accident near Selous on Sunday last week.
She was the first daughter of the Mutsvangwas’ eldest son Neville and his wife Natsai.
In a statement, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Misheck Sibanda said:
<blockquote>
On behalf of His Excellency the President, Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and the entire Cabinet, Deputy Chief Secretaries, heads of departments, chief directors and staff in the Office of the President and Cabinet, I wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Mutsvangwa family on the tragic and untimely passing on of Paida Nonica Mutsvangwa in a road traffic accident which occurred in Selous on April 10, 2022.
The late Paida is the granddaughter of the ZANU PF Secretary for Information, Cde Chris Mutsvangwa, and the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Monica Mutsvangwa.
It is particularly painful that a young and intelligent girl in the prime of a potentially bright path in life succumbed to the injuries she sustained in the accident, hardly a week into the school holiday.
Without a doubt, the sad occurrence brought deep sorrow to the entire Mutsvangwa family, friends and relatives as well as the head, staff and learners at Bishoplea Primary School, where Paida was an obedient and diligent pupil.
May the bereaved family draw comfort from the knowledge that we share their grief as we pray that the Lord Almighty grants them the fortitude to remain strong as they bid farewell to a loved one. May Paida’s soul rest in eternal peace.
</blockquote>
Paida was laid to rest at Glen Forest Cemetary on Friday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/president-consoles-mutsvangwa-family">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

President Mnangagwa Mourns Nonica Mutsvangwa

Information, Publicity and Broadcast Services, Monica Mutsvangwa, will be the guest of honour at the Johane Masowe eChishanu Apostolic Sect Easter celebrations in Bulawayo’s Selborne Park suburb on Sunday.
In an interview with the Chronicle, the leader of the sect, Madzibaba Emmanuel Mutumwa, said they chose Mutsvangwa because she is a role model to women. Said Mutumwa:
<blockquote>
We chose Minister Mutsvangwa because she is one of the women who have made it in life, politics and business in Zimbabwe. She is a role model to many a woman out there.
That is why we are gathering to pray for challenges faced by women and mothers in all aspects of life.
Mothers are the cornerstone that has helped build our communities and this beautiful country of ours.
They are the keys that every nation needs, without them the world would not exist. We applaud women for their work.
</blockquote>
Mutumwa said his sect does not condone child marriages or any form of gender-based violence. He said:
<blockquote>
In my ministry, we frown upon child abuse in the form of child marriages. We have a committee in the church that was set up specifically to deal with child marriage perpetrators.
Child marriages are not tolerated in this church, instead, we want to build a girl child with a future to look forward to.
We encourage the girl child to concentrate on their education and establish a good career path so that they have a brighter future and be prayerful mothers of tomorrow.
We also encourage men to let their wives and daughters flourish. Gender equality cannot be achieved if men don’t support the efforts.
We also condemn gender violence, no one woman must be assaulted for whatever reason.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-slams-wanton-price-hikes/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Mutsvangwa Invited To Madzibaba Mutumwa's Easter celebrations

<blockquote>
<h2>ZIMBABWE’S RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND REPORT ON THE PROCUREMENT AND ROLL-OUT VACCINES</h2>
Cabinet received an update on the country’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and a Report on the Procurement and Roll-Out of Vaccines, as presented by the Chairperson of the Ministers’ COVID-19 National Committee, Vice President and Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga.
As of 21 February, 2022, Zimbabwe’s cumulative COVID-19 cases stood at 233 352, with 224 940 recoveries and 5 386 deaths. The recovery rate stood at 96%, with 929 active cases having been recorded. The number of new COVID-19 cases increased to 1 971 during the week under review, compared to 929 recorded the previous week. The following areas recorded the most significant number of new cases : – Masvingo (642); Manicaland (402); Mashonaland East (280); and Matabeleland North (191).
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<section>Cabinet advises that the number of people in need of hospitalisation for COVID-19 increased, with the country’s bed occupancy rate increasing from 1.3% the previous week to 2.1% during the week under review. a total of fifty-four new admissions were recorded during the week compared to thirty-two the previous week.</section>
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Regarding the national vaccination programme, Cabinet advises the nation that as at 18 February, 2022, the cumulative number of first, second and third doses administered stood at 4 336 120, 3 369 172 as well as 101 748 respectively. Of concern is the low vaccine coverages for Chitungwiza City (25.5%), Mashonaland East Provinces (31.6%)and Mashonaland West Province (28.8%).During that during the week under review, 145 learners in 38 schools tested positive for COVID-19, while 11 members of staff also tested positive. All the active cases detected through the schools’ surveillance system are under isolation and being managed in accordance with the relevant protocols.
<h3>Cabinet resolved as follows:</h3>
That, in view of the science-based guidance from the Paediatric Association of Zimbabwe Special COVID-19 Vaccine Group,COVID-19 vaccination be extended to the 12 to 15 years age group;
that the Risk Communication Sub-committee should urgently meet with the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) unit of the Ministry of Health and Child Care and begin to prepare and mobilise communities for the March to June national vaccination blitz;
that Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution and their teams should urgently finalise their updated vaccination strategies and micro plans for the harmonised vaccination blitz in line with the agreed timelines; and that strict enforcement of all COVID-19 regulations must continue, coupled with strengthened risk communication on the pandemic must continue.
<h2>PROGRESS REPORT ON THE RESUSCITATION OF ZISCO-STEEL</h2>
Cabinet received an update on the resuscitation of ZISCO-Steel as presented by the , Honourable Dr. Sekai Nzenza.
Cabinet is informing the nation that due process was undertaken for the identification of an investor to partner Government in the operationalisation of ZISCO Steel. The standard process to find an investor/partner for ZISCO-Steel was undertaken under guidance from the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA) and incorporated inputs from the State Enterprises Restructuring Agency (SERA). Initially, nine prospective investors expressed interest, and after a review by the Executive Management team, four bidders were shortlisted. Following further, due diligence, the bidders were reduced to three. Out of the three, Kuvimba Mining House was recommended. Accordingly, Cabinet approved that Kuvimba Mining House be engaged as the Investment partner for the resuscitation of ZISCO Steel. Kuvimba Mining House is a reputable player in the mining and metals sector, and has previously been involved in the Cases in point are the recent resuscitation ofJena Gold Mine in Midlands Province and Shamva Gold Mines in Mashonaland Central Province, a process which has resulted in the remittance of dividend to Treasury.
<h2>3.0 PRIORITY PROJECTS FOR THE FIRST 100-DAY CYCLE OF 2022</h2>
Cabinet considered and approved Priority Projects for the First 100-Day Cycle of 2022 as presented by the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes in the President’s Office, Honourable Joram Gumbo.
The nation is being informed that a total of three hundred and forty (340) projects spread across Ministries, Departments and Agencies were submitted for implementation under the First 100-Day Cycle of 2022, which commenced on 10 February, 2022 and will end on 21 May, 2022.The priority projects should contribute to the advancement of the National Development Strategy 1: 2021-2025, and have an impact on the livelihoods of the citizenry.
The distribution of the projects according to NDS 1 Thematic Areas is as follows:
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
No
</td>
<td valign="top">
NDS 1 THEMATIC AREA
</td>
<td valign="top">
NUMBER OF PROJECTS
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
1
</td>
<td valign="top">
Food and Nutrition
</td>
<td valign="top">
9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
2
</td>
<td valign="top">
Infrastructure and Utilities
</td>
<td valign="top">
22
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
3
</td>
<td valign="top">
Moving the Economy up the Value Chain, and Structural Transformation
</td>
<td valign="top">
8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
4
</td>
<td valign="top">
Governance
</td>
<td valign="top">
10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
6
</td>
<td valign="top">
Environmental Protection, Climate Resilience and Natural Resource Management
</td>
<td valign="top">
4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
7
</td>
<td valign="top">
Housing Delivery
</td>
<td valign="top">
8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
9
</td>
<td valign="top">
Health and Well-Being
</td>
<td valign="top">
5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
10
</td>
<td valign="top">
Human Capital Development
</td>
<td valign="top">
11
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
11
</td>
<td valign="top">
Social Protection
</td>
<td valign="top">
8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
12
</td>
<td valign="top">
Devolution
</td>
<td valign="top">
7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
13
</td>
<td valign="top">
Image Building and International Re-engagement
</td>
<td valign="top">
17
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
14
</td>
<td valign="top">
Economic Growth and Stability
</td>
<td valign="top">
10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
15
</td>
<td valign="top">
Youth, Sport and Culture
</td>
<td valign="top">
10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
16
</td>
<td valign="top">
Digital Economy
</td>
<td valign="top">
5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
TOTAL
</td>
<td valign="top">
134
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The disaggregation of the projects by Province is as follows:
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
PROVINCE
</td>
<td valign="top">
NUMBER OF PROJECTS
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Harare Metropolitan
</td>
<td valign="top">
52
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Matabeleland North
</td>
<td valign="top">
36
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Mashonaland West
</td>
<td valign="top">
34
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Mashonaland East
</td>
<td valign="top">
34
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Midlands
</td>
<td valign="top">
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Manicaland
</td>
<td valign="top">
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Matabeleland South
</td>
<td valign="top">
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Mashonaland Central
</td>
<td valign="top">
31
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Masvingo
</td>
<td valign="top">
28
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bulawayo Metropolitan
</td>
<td valign="top">
27
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
TOTAL
</td>
<td valign="top">
340
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Cabinet wishes to advise the nation that some of the projects will be replicated in more than one province or district. Fifty-one (51) percent of the projects will be funded by Government, while 36 percent will be funded by Development Partners while the remaining 13% will be jointly funded by Government and Development Partners.Government, on the other hand, will continue to use the Executive Electronic Dashboard (EED) and the Whole of Government Performance Management System, as e-planning, e-monitoring and e-reporting tools for expeditious decision-making purposes at all levels.
Ministries willbe required to submit their proposals for consideration by Cabinet.
<h2>4.0 PROPOSED INVESTMENT PROJECTS</h2>
Cabinet considered and approved the following four (4) Investment Projects which were presented by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, as Chairman of the Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Committee:
Proposed Joint Venture between TelOne, Flashcord and the National Venture Capital Company of Zimbabwe to form the Zimbabwe Innovation and Technology Company (Pvt.) Ltd. (ZITCO) for the Manufacture of ICT Devices;
Proposed Partnership between ZMDC and Chandiwana Mines (Pvt) Ltd. for the Resuscitation of Sabi Gold Mine;
Proposed Joint Venture Partnership between ZMDC and Govine Enterprises on the Resuscitation of Shamrock Copper Mine; and
Proposed Engagement of Samano Holdings (Pvt) Ltd by Mazowe Rural District Council in the Mining of Limestone at Dandamera Farm in Mashonaland Central Province.
<h2>Joint Venture Between TelOne, Flashcord and the National Venture Capital Company of Zimbabwe to form the Zimbabwe Innovation and Technology Company (Pvt.) Ltd. (ZITCO)</h2>
The Zimbabwe Innovation and Technology Company (Pvt.) Ltd. (ZITCO) is a joint venture company formed to manufacture ICT gadgets, and based e in the Msasa industrial area of Harare. To date, a total of 3 500 such gadgets have been manufactured, with production expected to reach 5 000 at the end of the year.
The economic benefits of the Joint Venture are:
employment creation: over 2 000 jobs will be created at the plant;
revenue generation: local production of the devices will result in import substitution, thereby saving foreign currency. The targeted export market includes Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique, and exports are estimated to generate US$25 million in the first three years (2022-24); and
strengthening of local industries through engagement of local skilled personnel use of local and materials. This will promote both upstream and downstream industries.
<h2>Partnership between ZMDC and Chandiwana Mines (Pvt) Ltd. for the Resuscitation of Sabi Gold Mine in Zvishavane, Midlands Province</h2>
Cabinet noted the Joint Venture Partnership between ZMDC and Chandiwana Mines (Pvt) Ltd on the resuscitation of operations at Sabi Gold Mine. Chandiwana Mines (Pvt) Ltd will inject the necessary working capital, while ZMDC will contribute mineral and material resources.The joint venture will be for a five (5) year period and will contribute 1 428 kilogrammes of gold to overall national production.
The project will initially create 650 jobs for locals, and this number will subsequently benefit 800 employees at full production. The other benefits of the project will include the following, among others: sustained production at Sabi Gold Mine; enhancement of the socio-economic environment in Zvishavane; and clearance of the debts as well as generating goodwill for Government as a shareholder. The project will also contribute to the US$12 billion Mining Industry by 2023, a milestone set by the Second Republic.
<h2>Joint Venture Partnership between ZMDC and Govine Enterprises on the Resuscitation of Shamrock Copper Mine</h2>
The Joint Venture Partnership between ZMDC and Govine Enterprises on the resuscitation of underground operations and dump treatment at Shamrock Copper Mine in Mashonaland West Province. The mine is expected to produce 34 200 metric tonnes of copper per year and generate US$45 million annually when fully operational. Govine Enterprises will inject the required while ZMDC will contribute mineral resources, mining title and infrastructure at the mine. ZMDC and Govine Enterprises will share revenue from gross sales in the ratio 20:80 in the first six years and 33:67 in the subsequent four years.
The project will create 400 jobs for locals, and Zimbabwe will benefit from technology transfer as well as US$295 million in foreign currency generation over ten years. The investor, as part of corporate social responsibility, will construct amenities and facilities such as schools and clinics for the benefit of the local community.
<h2>Engagement of Samano Holdings (Pvt) Ltd by Mazowe Rural District Council in the Mining of Limestone at Dandamera Farm in Mashonaland Central Province</h2>
The Joint Venture Agreement between Mazowe Rural District Council and Samano Holdings (Pvt) Ltd will involve the exploration and mining of limestone,thereby contributing to increased revenue inflows for the local authority.Samano Holdings will invest US$10.6 million into the venture, including US$4.5 million required for the 5MW solar plant to supply power to the mining operations. Mazowe Rural District Council will contribute mineral resources and the mining title.The Mazowe RDC and Samano Holdings joint inject will run on a shareholding ratio of 30:70 in the first five years and 40:60 subsequently.
The project will create at least 1 000 jobs for locals, generate US$170 million over ten years and plough back to the community through corporate social responsibility programmes. The mining venture will also provide wide range of products for use by agricultural and construction industries, thereby contributing to economic growth for the surrounding areas.
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

FULL TEXT: Second Post-cabinet Press Briefing: 22 February, 2022

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Peter_Mutasa">Peter Gift Mutasa</a>, a former president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Congress_of_Trade_Unions">Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU)</a> has criticised, Tendai Munengwa, a chief reporter at the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Broadcasting_Corporation">Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC)</a>, a state broadcaster, for biased coverage of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> rally.
The rally that was held on Sunday 20 February 2022 at Zimbabwe Grounds in Highfield was highly attended but the state broadcaster downplayed the turnout. 
In response, Mutasa said it was not shocking that Munengwa was reporting in that manner considering that he is a member of the ruling ZANU PF. He said:
<blockquote>
l was at the @CCCZimbabwe rally yesterday Looking at ZBC reports, one would think it attended a different rally Until you then see who the reporter really is. A @ZANUPF_Official member and candidate What else do we expect from all these party members It is DEAD BC
</blockquote>
Several journalists from State media participated in the ZANU PF primary elections in 2019, and they all lost. These were Tendai Munengwa, Andrew Neshamba (ZANU PF Mt Darwin South), Radio Zimbabwe disc jockey Richmond Siyakurima (ZANU PF Uzumba) and Garikai Mazara Sunday Mail Features Editor (ZANU PF Guruve).
Information and Publicity Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa">Monica Mutsvangwa</a> back then said that there is <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/31/zbc-journalists-are-free-to-contest-on-zanu-pf-tickets/">no law prohibiting State media journalists from participating in political contests for a party of their choice.</a>
<h2>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Former ZCTU President Criticises ZBC Reporter For "Biased" Coverage Of CCC Rally

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said churches can now exceed 100 people if congregants are vaccinated.
Mutsvangwa said churches taking into account their size, can now move from 100 people per service to half their capacity if congregants are fully vaccinated. She however said other social gatherings such as weddings and funerals are still limited to 100 people since it is difficult to enforce the need for vaccination at such events.
She said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet discussed the request by churches for a review of the number of congregants allowed in church services to at least a third, taking into account the size of the church. While all other gatherings shall not exceed 100 persons, with regards to churches, Cabinet has resolved that only vaccinated congregants can attend and should be limited to 50 percent of the holding capacity of the church.
</blockquote>
Cabinet’s decision follows a High Court ruling by judge Justice David Mangota last Friday that ruled against a decision barring unvaccinated congregants from physically attending church services.  Mangota said the ban on unvaccinated congregants violated citizens’ constitutional rights and freedom set out in the declaration of rights.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/no-vaccination-no-work-for-civil-servants/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Herald</a>, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/unvaccinated-congregants-can-attend-church-high-court/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a>

Churches Can Now Exceed 100 People If Congregants Are Vaccinated- Govt

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa on Tuesday announced that Cabinet had approved a request by the tourism industry to open the Victoria Falls and Kazungula Border Posts to tourists who are fully vaccinated.
This is in view of the realisation that over 60% of the population in Vic Falls has been vaccinated.
She also announced that:
<ul>
<li>Level 4 lockdown measures remain in force.</li>
<li>Cabinet also directed that the Police should adhere to the curfew times when mounting roadblocks.</li>
<li>Cabinet considered and adopted the National Development Strategy 1 Communication Strategy, which was presented by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.</li>
<li>The cabinet received a report on a Government delegation’s visit to the San Community in Tsholotsho District in Matabeleland North Province, which was presented by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works.</li>
<li>The delegation noted that the San people lack birth certificates and identity documents, encounter high teenage pregnancies as well as very low school completion rates at primary and secondary school, and suffer food insecurity mainly due to human-wildlife conflict and failure to practise modern agriculture.</li>
<li>In that regard, all constraints relating to testimonies by parents, relatives and guardians should be wavered;  the Ministry of Health and Child Care should establish clinics that will benefit the San/Tjwao and other similarly disadvantaged communities; the Security Ministries waiver the entry requirements to enable San/Tjwao citizens to enlist into the respective uniformed services; the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works expeditiously appoints headmen and chiefs to enhance the participation of the San/Tjwao in governance.  The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development should ensure the timeous release of funds requested by Ministries for the implementation of development programmes and projects in San/Tjwao communities.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Download <a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/25th-Post-Cabinet-Briefing-final.docx">25th Post Cabinet Briefing final</a></h2>

Post Cabinet Briefing: Victoria Falls, Kazungula Border Posts Open To Fully Vaccinated Tourists

The government has reiterated that all civil servants will be vaccinated or risk losing out on Covid-19 insurance if they get sick before they get vaccinated.
This position was announced by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, during a Post Cabinet Media Briefing on Tuesday in the capital.
She said the vaccination of all civil servants was one of the measures adopted to combat COVID-19 that has been wreaking havoc in the past recent weeks. Minister Mutsvangwa also observed that:
<blockquote>1) The government has reduced the workforce to 25%.
2) Courts of law will only open for remand and urgent cases.
3) All civil servants to be vaccinated, those who fall ill without being vaccinated will not be entitled to Covid-19 insurance
4) There was a surge in weekly cases from 8013 during the week ending 13 July, to 21346 in the week ending 20 July 2021. The surge is attributable to the general complacency in adhering to set protocols.
5) The Zimbabwean economy is expected to grow by 5.4% in 2022, anchored on growth in the mining, manufacturing and electricity generation sectors among others.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the official position remains that vaccination is voluntary in Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Government Reiterates All Civil Servants To Be Vaccinated

The government has reiterated the “no work, no pay” policy saying teachers who absented themselves from work “for no valid reasons” were not going to get salaries.
Teachers have since the resumption of schools this year been on strike and or go slow demanding better pay and working conditions.
The Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said workers had proper channels to table their grievances, therefore, the “no work, no pay” policy will address absenteeism issues.
Speaking in Chinhoyi during a Zanu PF provincial coordinating committee meeting on Saturday, Minister Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>Our Government has made it clear that those not going to work will not get paid and that’s the labour principle. But at the same time, we have a Tripartite Negotiating Forum for you to air concerns, negotiate and bargain for wages. Why then are teachers not attending to children when the Government had been paying their salaries for over one-and-a-half years under the Covid-19 lockdown period?
Our teachers should have a heart and be patriotic as teaching is meant to impart knowledge to the young generation. Most of these have lost over a year of learning because of the pandemic.</blockquote>
She said the lockdown had also presented a challenge mainly to rural learners who had no access to online learning, hence a valid reason why teachers were supposed to be considerate to address their plight.
The “incapacitated” teachers are demanding a restoration of their 2018 salaries when they were being paid about US$500.
The government and its workers have for long been having pay talks with the latter claiming that their pay in the local currency had been eroded by inflation that soared in the past two years.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/no-going-back-on-docking-salaries/">The Herald</a>

Government Reiterates "No Work, No Pay" Policy

Statement by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa on World Press Freedom Day.
Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world today in celebrating World Press Freedom Day. The day is being celebrated under the theme “Information as a public good.”
The theme, as outlined by the UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, “underlines the indisputable importance of verified and reliable information. It calls attention to the essential role of free and professional journalists in producing and disseminating this information, by tackling misinformation and other harmful content.”
I am proud to inform you that under the Second Republic, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in ensuring a safe, free and competitive operating environment for all media and ensuring that indeed, information is treated as a public good.
Highlights of the Government’s efforts towards ensuring press freedom include the passage of several Bills into laws and the opening up of airwaves for both television and radio broadcasts.
In July 2020, the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) was repealed and effectively replaced with the Freedom of Information Act.
The Freedom of Information Act heralded a new chapter in the country’s media landscape in as far as transparency and access to information is concerned.
In April this year, the Zimbabwe Media Commission Act came into effect. This Act seeks to make further provision with regard to the functions of the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC), to provide for the manner in which the Commission exercises its functions.
It also provides for the investigation and hearing procedure by the Commission of complaints received and to provide for the Secretariat of the Commission among others.
The ZMC Act has been hailed by stakeholders such as MISA for being progressive and providing a wide definition of media which includes the dissemination of information through the internet and any other electronic means.
In the area of further opening up of the airwaves, 6 private television stations were granted licenses by the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe in November 2020. In addition, 6 language-based community radio stations were also granted licenses.
It is expected that these new players will bring in diversity and plurality in the media sector as well as create employment.
These developments are an expression of Government’s tolerance for different voices and views from media practitioners.
The above examples show Government of Zimbabwe’s full commitment to the principles of press freedom obtained in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights which we are reinforcing through our own country’s supreme law, the Constitution.
Media practitioners in all their diversity are an important cog in nation-building. It is, therefore, important that their ability to carry out this task is not tampered with.
They must be given the space so that they can speak truths and the safety of their working environment is very crucial.
The Second Republic continues to ensure media practitioners operate without harassment or ill-treatment and that they have full access to information they require.
I urge media house owners to ensure that media practitioners’ welfare is improved through the provision of decent working conditions and life rewarding salaries.  Provision of adequate PPE is also crucial as they work during the Covid19 pandemic.
Government designated media practitioners as essential service workers to enable them to carry out their duties unhindered during the Lockdown.
Journalists were also prioritised together with frontline health workers in the national Covid19 vaccination programme.
It is my hope that all journalists have by now taken advantage of the special designation as essential service workers to get their Covid19 vaccine.
On their part, media practitioners have to improve on the standards of the profession. They should report in a truthful, informative and analytical way and avoid the temptation of tabloid sensationalism.
Government has adopted stringent policies against the spread of fake news and it is our belief that the measures put in place provide good grounds for credible journalism to thrive.
This year, the day is once again celebrated amidst a devastating global Covid 19 pandemic.
I take this opportunity to thank members of the media fraternity for their dedication to duty in these trying times and contribution to the Covid 19 fight through information dissemination.
As we all celebrate World Press Freedom today, I call on all media practitioners to remain resolute in the fight against Covid 19. The media plays a critical role in the fight against the pandemic.
Citizens depend on the media services for information that empowers them to adequately respond and implement the necessary measures to contain the spread of Covid-19.
Let us not fail in our duty to serve the public to the best of our ability. The milestones by the Second Republic are meant to deliver information as a public good.
We know that, as a public good with the potential for universal reach, information allows us to know our rights and prerogatives, as well as contribute to our communities’ general interest.
Under our watch, the media will act as a service for sustainable development.
Happy World Press Freedom Day!

World Press Freedom Day Statement By Info Minister Monica Mutsvangwa

The ruling ZANU PF has reportedly rejected the appointment of a female Vice President ( VP) as a replacement to Kembo Mohadi who recently resigned after allegations that he was having affairs with his married aides.
Some political analysts, including exiled Political Science Professor, Jonathan Moyo had argued that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/02/mohadi-replacement-3-scenarios-jonathan-moyo/">three options at his disposal with regards to finding a replacement to Mohadi.</a>
Jonathan Moyo earlier argued that Mnangagwa could appoint the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Philip Valerio Sibanda mainly because of his contribution during Operation Restore Legacy that propelled Mnangagwa to power.
He said Mnangagwa could appoint a senior former ZAPU member as per the Unity Accord of 1987 signed by ZANU and ZAPU to merge the two parties.
The third option, according to Moyo, was to appoint a woman as Mohadi replacement as the party was already pushing for women’s empowerment.
The two senior women who were tipped to land the post are defence minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Oppah_Muchinguri-Kashiri">Oppah Muchinguri</a> and information minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa">Monica Mutsvangwa</a>.
Now reports suggest that some bigwigs in the ruling party are resisting the push for the amendment of the party constitution to re-introduce a female VP as was the case before former VP Joice Mujuru was fired from the party and government by Mugabe in 2014.
Zanu PF secretary for legal affairs, Paul Mangwana, told the Daily News Monday that amending the party’s constitution to accommodate a woman as one of the country’s VPs was not a current consideration.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">At the moment we are not targeting the vice president’s post…
It (the party’s constitution) does not talk of certain positions having women. We are simply saying we stand for gender equality as an aspiration, but it won’t happen overnight.
Even in all political formations they are failing to achieve that (women’s quota), although everyone is trying to do so.
There are many socio-economic challenges in the country which are actually fighting against that aspiration, but we are trying to achieve it.</blockquote>
He, however, claimed that ZANU PF has gender representation in its structures and is still striving for “gender equality as a modern and progressive party.”
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<div class="bsaProItemInner__img">Meanwhile, women advocacy groups are imploring Mnangagwa and Zanu PF to re-appoint a female VP.</div>
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<div class="bsaProItemInner__img">More: <a href="https://dailynews.co.zw/zanu-pf-resists-female-vp-pushas-its-bigwigs-fight-to-replace-mohadi-in-government/?_ga=2.17301689.1202188573.1617045052-2033503882.1614659007">Daily News</a></div>
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Mohadi Replacement: ZANU PF Rejects Female VP

The government has said schools will reopen in a phased approach, writing classes will go back to school on 15 March 2021 while the rest of the students will go back on 22 March 2021. This was announced by the Ministry of Infomation and Publicity and Broadcasting Services Monica Mutsvangwa who in a post-cabinet briefing said:
<blockquote>Schools will re-open in a phased manner with exam classes commencing on 15 March 2021. Rest of the classes will resume on 22 March 2021.</blockquote>
Leaners were last in school on 18 December 2020 and they were supposed to have gone back to school on 4 January 2021 but the government imposed a national lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s second wave that hit Zimbabwe soon after the festive season.
The government did not give further details on when schools should close given the Easter Holiday is just 10 days away from the reopening date. Parents who commented to the Ministry Of Information Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana’s tweet about schools reopening asked the government to revise the calendar but he did not respond to any of their comments.
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/InfoMinZW/status/1366777134472196106">Ministry of Information</a>

Schools To Reopen On 15 And 22 March - Government

The government has condemned the recent prices increases, warning the “unscrupulous businesspeople” that investigations into the matter are already underway.
Speaking during a post Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>Cabinet takes exception to the recent unwarranted hikes in prices of goods and services by unscrupulous businesspeople.
Government would like to inform the nation that investigations into the matter are currently underway and that Government will leave no stone unturned until it brings the culprits to book.</blockquote>
Earlier this month industrialists blamed the price increases on the general increase in rates and fees since October last year.
Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) president Henry Ruzvidzo said the fact that council rates, tollgates fees, electricity tariffs, and fuel prices have all been going up means consumers will naturally see general price increases. He said:
<blockquote>… we had price increases for electricity twice in October and November (last year); council rates went up, ZINARA rates went up, and electricity tariffs were adjusted (once) again.
I am not saying this everything that caused the price increases, but these factors contributed to the price increases.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/cabinet-raps-unwarranted-price-hikes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Govt Probes Recent Price Hikes

The government is yet to announce the date for reopening schools, The Herald reports. The government through the Infomation Minister Monica Mutsvangwa during a post-cabinet briefing simply said they are preparing to reopen schools and did not shed more information on the matter.
Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>Regarding primary and secondary education, the responsible ministry continues to work with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to prepare for the inevitable re-opening of schools.
Meanwhile, the training of school health coordinators and the assessment of the schools’ preparations for the resumption of learning is ongoing. Government is doing its best to ensure that adequate precautionary measures are taken before schools are opened.</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa did not share further details on whether schools will open in a phased approach like last time or anything except the fact that the government is preparing to reopen schools. Schools closed for the holidays on 18 December 2020 and they were supposed to reopen on 4 January but the government imposed a 30 days lockdown on 2 January due to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases after the festive season.
Source: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/schools-reopening-preps-underway/">The Herald </a>

No Dates For Reopening Schools As Yet

The government, through Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa on Thursday sent a message of condolence to the Musaka family following the death of musician Soul Musaka, popularly known as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Soul_Jah_Love" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Soul Jah Love</a>.
The award-winning Zimdancehall musician died on Tuesday after battling diabetes for many years. He was 31.
In a statement, Minister Mutsvangwa described the late artist as a leading chanter whose music influence cut across all generations. She said:
<blockquote>It is with great sadness that we have learnt the death of Soul Musaka Soul Jah Love, leading dancehall musician and a chanter who has greatly influenced the dancehall music scene in the country and across all generations.
I join you my fellow Zimbabweans in celebrating the life of a young man whose lyrical prowess was legendary, entertaining and spoke to the real-life situations as it touched on our social culture.
All the people who knew him greatly loved and will always keep the memory of a great musician. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes the treasure.
On behalf of Government, I send our deepest condolence to the Musaka family, friends, music fraternity and his fans during this time of bereavement and may God bring you the much-needed peace and comfort till we meet again.</blockquote>

Minister Consoles Late Soul Jah Love's Family

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has implored the corporate sector to provide more personal protective equipment (PPE) to journalists as they play an important role in the fight against COVID-19.
Mutsvangwa made the call on Friday after receiving a donation of PPEs to journalists by Nyaradzo Group, a local funeral insurance company. She said:
<blockquote>The media plays a crucial role in the fight against COVID-19 and it has been designated as an essential service.
Issues of safety and protection of the media against COVID-19 during the course of their work can not be taken lightly.
As I welcome this gesture of Nyaradzo Group, I call on other corporates to dig deeper and do even more for our journalists.
These men and women are providing vital information to our nation about COVID-19.</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa also noted the crucial role played by the media in combating fake news propagated via social media platforms by mischievous individuals. She added:
<blockquote>The media has been working tirelessly to promote reliable information and combat misinformation that is usually spread via social media by some unscrupulous individuals.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mutsvangwa-urges-provision-of-more-ppes-to-journalists/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mutsvangwa Exhorts Corporates To Avail PPEs For Journalists

Zimbabwe Republic Police Officers yesterday stormed Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (RoilBAA) in Bulawayo and stopped the event for violating COVID-19 regulations while round about the same time in Harare some government officials were pictured at a birthday party in clear violation of COVID-19 regulations. The events which came to light through social media have made Zimbabweans on social media mainly Twitter questioning the integrity of the police force.
Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services permanent secretary Nick Mangwana posted the following photos of Monica Mutsvangwa’s 60th birthday party and captioned it:
<blockquote>Today we are celebrating Hon Minister Monica Mutsvangwa’s 60th Birthday. She certainly looks younger than a sexagenarian. Happy 60th Hon Minister.</blockquote>
<img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-188735 size-full" decoding="async" height="1008" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 490px) 100vw, 490px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-1.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-1.jpg 490w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-1-146x300.jpg 146w" width="490"/> <img alt="" class="wp-image-188736 size-large aligncenter" decoding="async" height="480" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-1024x768.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2-1320x990.jpg 1320w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-2.jpg 2048w" width="640"/> <img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-188737 size-large" decoding="async" height="480" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-1024x768.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-300x225.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-768x576.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3-1320x990.jpg 1320w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-3.jpg 2048w" width="640"/> <img alt="" class="wp-image-188738 size-full aligncenter" decoding="async" height="1008" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 490px) 100vw, 490px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-4.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-4.jpg 490w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mutsvangwa-Birthday-4-146x300.jpg 146w" width="490"/>
The photos show that no social distancing was observed and the guests had no masks, furthermore, public gatherings like parties and weddings are still prohibited except for churches and burials.
When asked why they were having a party against the law by one Twimbo, Mangwana said they had all been tested prior to the party which left other Twimbos asking if people can now hold gatherings if they have COVID-19 free certificates.
Meanwhile, around the same time, ZRP Police Officers in Bulawayo were storming the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards instructing the event to shut down because they were not adhering to COVID-19 containment measures.
<img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-188739 size-full" decoding="async" height="646" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 1079px) 100vw, 1079px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ZRP-Stoping-Roil-BAA.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ZRP-Stoping-Roil-BAA.jpg 1079w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ZRP-Stoping-Roil-BAA-300x180.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ZRP-Stoping-Roil-BAA-1024x613.jpg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ZRP-Stoping-Roil-BAA-768x460.jpg 768w" width="1079"/>
This made Twimbos question the integrity of ZRP and some even went on to say, some animals are more important than others. MDC Alliance spokesperson Fadzai Mahere using microblogging site Twitter said:
<blockquote>We live in a country where <a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/PoliceZimbabwe" role="link">@PoliceZimbabwe </a>will never attend the scene of an abduction, let alone investigate the perpetrators. But they will shut down an arts event “just because.” Mind you, Zanu elites had a big bash in violation of all Covid regs.<a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/PoliceZimbabwe" role="link">@PoliceZimbabwe </a>did nothing.</blockquote>
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmangwana/status/1332781873408471044">Twitter </a>

ZRP Stops Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards While Govt Officials Are Pictured At A Birthday Party In Harare

The Cabinet of Zimbabwe on Tuesday approved the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS) economic blueprint that will stretch from 2021 to 2025.
During last night’s media briefing which was preceded by the Cabinet meeting, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the economic blueprint outlines the policies, legal and institutional reforms, programmes and projects. She added
<blockquote>
This will help to achieve accelerated, high, inclusive, broad-based and sustainable economic growth and development.
The National Development Strategy (NDS) was a result of an extensive and structured consultative process involving stakeholders.
The strategy succeeds the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP): 2018-2020, which focused on, inter-alia, stabilising the macro-economy and the financial sector, and thus laid the foundation required for economic growth.
The report on the TSP will be published at the end of the programme period.
</blockquote>
NDS 1 would, she said, builds on the successes and challenges of the TSP to steer the economy into an average growth rate of 5 percent a year.
She added that the NDS had 14 priority areas:
<blockquote>
<ol>
<li class="p3">economic growth and stability;</li>
<li class="p3">food security and nutrition;</li>
<li class="p3">governance;</li>
<li class="p3">moving the economy up the value chain and structural transformation;</li>
<li class="p3">human capital development;</li>
<li class="p3">environmental protection, climate resilience and natural resource management;</li>
<li class="p3">housing delivery;</li>
<li class="p3">ICT and the digital economy;</li>
<li class="p3">health and well-being;</li>
<li class="p3">transport, infrastructure and utilities;</li>
<li class="p3">image-building and international engagement and re-engagement;</li>
<li class="p3">social protection;</li>
<li class="p3">youth, sport and culture;</li>
<li class="p3">and devolution.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
Finance and Economic Development minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said the NDS was unique in that it is results oriented.
He added that there will be a monitoring unit in the President’s office to make sure the set targets are met. Ncube added:
<blockquote>
The idea is to launch the NDS before the budget because the NDS is the pillar of the budget.
</blockquote>
The NDS reminds of the ZANU PF’s Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (ZIMASSET) which was launched following the party’s landslide victory of 2013 to revive the country’s collapsed economy.
Some say ZIMASSET failed mainly due to inadequate funding and the five year time frame period was too narrow for the complete implementation of the policy.
More:<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/cabinet-approves-nds-1-economic-blueprint/?__cf_chl_captcha_tk__=0798090e34e0993d65eacc0f0e5d7d4ba8135285-1605076479-0-AVj4hMTWRjmppwEocAnNNnOczyRBRaKVSk_d4ubIxxoYcikju8BuJ5cWvNfMSlv0ojJALhjDUhGt8g-CyGPclNDv56IDmj4QpdvdMSDsM0Ll5NCqNuJszZALDO3pyGtRKWItfBIrzaJkWt5W6euBXNiKV5NOT34u-33a4bwZWQxhy3-z9LY_-LbmxSnEB-CDr1ozMRp4nZFiw5tDimCsPiL_BzWkZ0i5Auip5kQhs9slpx2vIDYf-G5PPKqDNc3j9F2u0StoGpKWJCRol74qSfH0F0E7SEDemVeH9LJmhr8CXM0Rp6KEJj29PGV67GMc-7osXE4D7uWlSAwuqwMqW1ceTIB6J0TQmr2ZigaTSiomwQioKHKnOmga_H3_cV1d88NgmSCjiN3kaCxWen9UsZfZeh7pMo65QpxbPTz7U56iqatm3yVZfyi6YMgmHw2K0Nrda4GYR139Q_yiXl5AVmVXdg6HTEZrFsE1wJ42XwhRxW1gOE4XjCayze-LlDcaiuByDJu9e1rTcSjPgg63NQZjzk7To37g2stGGuq_Y0Je" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> The Herald</a>

Cabinet Approves NDS 1 Economic Blueprint

All government workers have been awarded a 40 percent salary increment while teachers would be awarded a further 10 percent risk allowance.
This comes when teachers have since the reopening of schools on 28 September been refusing to go back to school citing poor salaries and working conditions.
The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa made the announcement on Tuesday during a post-cabinet media briefing. Said the minister:
<blockquote>Noting its obligations to pay a decent wage, Government has reviewed upwards, the salary increase offer to civil servants by 40 percent which will be awarded to deputy director grade and below,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
In addition to the salary increase, the teachers will also be awarded a 10 percent risk allowance. The new basic salary package for a teacher is $18 237, which is above the Poverty Datum Line (PDL).
This means that the compounded review percentage of the teacher grade salary is 1 284 percent since the beginning of the year. The lowest paid civil servant will receive a salary of $14 528. This is effective from November 1, 2020.</blockquote>
Since last year, there has been a stand-off between the government and workers who have been declaring incapacitation.
They argued that their salaries had been eroded by inflation that has been soaring in the past 24 months.
Authorities introduced a number of measures including cheap transport, garrison shops for the security sector and Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA) in an endeavour to cushion them from the bumps of life but they have not had the intended effect.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/civil-servants-awarded-40-percent-pay-hike/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

Government Workers Awarded 40% Salary Increment

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