Dozens of “4 ED” groups, formed in support of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, have mushroomed across Zimbabwe, sparking debate over their real motives. While presented as “for Economic Development,” critics say the groups serve to consolidate Mnangagwa’s personal power amid Zanu-PF factionalism and economic despair. Analysts argue the trend reflects deepening poverty and political patronage, as citizens form loyalty groups seeking material rewards rather than genuine development.

Ten former liberation war fighters have been remanded in custody for allegedly plotting an anti-Mnangagwa protest. Their movement was dubbed the “One Million Man March.” Led by Rose Chirenje, the group is accused of attempting to mobilize citizens to denounce the president over alleged corruption and betrayal of the revolution. Authorities say the planned demonstration was organized online by activist Blessed Geza. The arrests highlight rising political dissent within Zimbabwe’s once-loyal liberation ranks.

Businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei was appointed to Zanu-PF’s Central Committee, raising his profile within the ruling party. Tagwirei has previously been involved as a party supporter and financier. His appointment comes amid ongoing discussions between different party factions and ahead of the 2028 political cycle, highlighting shifts in party leadership roles and the broader distribution of influence within Zanu-PF.

Parliament has vowed to push for a higher budget allocation for road infrastructure in the upcoming 2026 National Budget. Goromonzi West MP Biatah Nyamupinga said the Transport Ministry needs more funds to complete major projects like the Harare-Chirundu and Beitbridge-Bulawayo roads. She urged contractors to meet deadlines to justify future funding. The ministry has already exceeded its 2024 budget by 245% amid rising infrastructure demands.

Zimbabwe has been elected to the UNESCO Executive Board. The appointment places it among 57 nations shaping global education, science, and cultural policy for the next four years. The country ranked highest in Africa and second globally, strengthening its diplomatic influence. Officials emphasized using the platform to protect UNESCO World Heritage Sites and push for the unconditional repatriation of cultural artifacts taken during colonial rule.

Zimbabwe is reinstating its Parole System to ease prison overcrowding and promote inmate reintegration, according to Prisons Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu. The reform, alongside the new Pathways to Reintegration Foundation, aligns with Vision 2030 and aims to modernize correctional practices. The new framework introduces supervised early release for reformed inmates, supported by partnerships with regional counterparts and local institutions. A continental parole conference will be held next month.

The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) and the Securities Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe (SecZim) signed an MoU to strengthen consumer protection in the financial sector. The partnership will ensure investors and financial consumers are informed, treated fairly, and safeguarded against malpractice. It also aims to improve regulatory oversight, facilitate complaint resolution, and educate the public on financial rights. Their mandate includes promoting transparency, accountability, and confidence in Zimbabwe’s capital markets.

Zimbabwe’s $1.2 billion tobacco industry faces a major threat as the World Health Organization considers tighter controls or a global production ban over child labour and environmental concerns. Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka warned the move could devastate farmers and foreign currency earnings. At a regional “T5” meeting, Zimbabwe and its neighbors pledged to defend the sector while pursuing reforms under the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan.

The IMF has praised Zimbabwe’s stronger-than-expected 2025 economic performance, driven by robust agriculture and mining growth, easing inflation, and improved fiscal management. Growth could exceed 6%, with momentum projected to continue into 2026. The Fund urged the government to sustain fiscal discipline, strengthen revenue collection, and manage spending to preserve stability. Economists say the rebound reflects restored investor confidence, bolstered by ongoing reforms and Zimbabwe’s global re-engagement efforts.