AGP Executive Report

Arts & Culture: Bulawayo arts advocate Gog’ Bekezela Nkomo is set to host the Arts Administrators High Tea (July 15–17) to help build a sustainable creative economy, with practical solutions for tough times. Politics & Governance: President Mnangagwa says CAB3 is a collective decision, outlining major governance changes as opposition and teachers’ union leaders mobilise against the term-extension push. National Heroes & Faith: Major-General (Ret.) Richard Ruwodo’s body is flown to Manicaland ahead of burial, while VP Chiwenga urges Zimbabweans to reject hatred and division at St Killian’s Mission centenary celebrations. Climate & Food Security: Government begins El Niño preparations, including expanding irrigation by 20,000ha to protect production. Identity & Heritage: A feature digs into Ndebele identity—who the Ndebele are, and how history, language and geography shape belonging. Education & Youth: ZEP coordinators launch emergency online bridging classes after thousands of children return from South Africa mid-year and face curriculum deadlock. Regional Tensions: Xenophobic unrest in South Africa continues to drive repatriations and door-to-door raids, with Mozambique reporting deaths linked to the violence. Sports & Lifestyle: Dynamos face MWOS in PSL action, while music fans get a Bulawayo album launch date for Charles Mahlaba’s Life (Impilo).

Border & security cooperation: Botswana and Zimbabwe have introduced patrols by traditional regiments along parts of their shared border to curb cross-border crime, with joint community education on issues like gender-based violence and anti-poaching. Regional migration tensions: South Africa’s anti-immigrant protests are escalating into door-to-door raids and evictions, while Mozambique says two of its citizens were killed in xenophobic unrest near Johannesburg. Education disruption for returnees: More than 10,000 Zimbabwean children displaced from South Africa face a schooling crisis after returning mid-year, with a ZEP emergency online education push aimed at protecting Grade 7, O-Level and Matric learners. Youth, culture & sport: Njube High School in Bulawayo received donated football kits from a former learner in South Africa, boosting the school’s programme and motivating students. Money & learning: The RBZ launched the Schools Monetary Policy Challenge with ZiG10 million to teach financial literacy and monetary policy debate. Church & politics debate: President Mnangagwa handed a new Land Cruiser to a church leader, while senior ZANU PF officials also appeared at a church gathering—sparking fresh arguments about the church-state line. Arts education milestone: MCSZ Music Academy prepares for its 9th graduation ceremony, celebrating graduates across music, dance, visual arts, theatre and sign language. Sports (Zimbabwe): Zimbabwe hosts Bangladesh in the 3rd ODI at Harare Sports Club, with Sikandar Raza aiming to complete a series whitewash.

Xenophobia at the border: South Africa’s Public Works minister says parts of the Limpopo border with Zimbabwe have “literally” become no border at all, as Musina sees hundreds of undocumented migrants preparing to return home after anti-migrant protests. Returnees’ reality check: Zimbabweans arriving at Beitbridge describe fear and heartbreak on the way back, but say the government reception centre brings order, meals, medical care and a calmer start. Crime and justice: UK police say Zimbabwean-heritage suspect Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma (Mark) was arrested in Kensington, Johannesburg, over the murder of his wife and two daughters in Bedfordshire; he’s expected to face court and possible extradition. Music and youth culture: Bulawayo Zimdancehall rising star Omarivibes drops “Ndinewe,” while Lebo M halts reconciliation with comedian Learnmore after a toilet-photo controversy derailed a planned podcast truce. Child safety online: Zimbabwe launches the National Action Plan for Children IV (2026–2030) and a National Child Online Protection Policy, targeting online violence, consent harms and exploitation links. Education investment: Government signs a US$420m deal to build up to 1,000 new primary and secondary schools nationwide. National hero: Major-General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo is conferred national hero status ahead of burial at National Heroes Acre. Creative skills: UK-based Zimbabwean lighting designer Mildred “Lighting Bae” Moyo partners with Lupane State University for a September lighting masterclass to grow local technical talent.

Child Protection & Digital Safety: Bulawayo hosted the National Child Protection Conference, with Sweden praising Zimbabwe’s NAP IV (2026–2030) and the National Child Online Protection Policy, while Deputy ICT Minister Dingumuzi Phuti warned that digital progress must come with urgent safeguards for children. Education for Displaced Learners: ZEP holders in South Africa launched emergency online bridging classes for over 10,000 Zimbabwean children, aiming to align learning with CAPS after anti-migrant unrest disrupted schooling. Cricket Leadership: Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed Richard Ngarava as Test and ODI captain, Sikandar Raza retained for T20I, and Josephine Nkomo named women’s captain. Music & Identity: Charles TJ, a queer Zimbabwean artist who used music to challenge discrimination and open conversations on faith and mental health, died at 28. Sports Culture Moment: A brass band at Harare Sports Club sparked debate after players complained it distracted fielders and affected umpiring during the Bangladesh ODI series. Health Strategy: The Health and Child Care ministry unveiled the 2026–2030 national health strategy, targeting lower maternal and child deaths, better access to medicines, and stronger health financing. Road Safety & Privilege: A Borrowdale Tesla crash involving Tinashe Mutarisi Jr. reignited debate on accountability and road safety. Xenophobia Fallout: MSF says alleged anti-migrant attacks in South Africa are hitting mothers and chronically ill patients hardest as people lose medication and care; Mozambique also reported deaths linked to xenophobic unrest. Literature & Faith: Fr Pat Lennon’s memoir is set for launch on July 19, reflecting on decades of ministry and missionary work in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Author Talks: Livermore Public Library announced July online author talks featuring Karin Slaughter, Katherine Rundell and Reyna Grande.

Anti-migrant protests in South Africa: Door-to-door raids and weekly marches are escalating xenophobic pressure, with humanitarian groups warning of growing displacement and healthcare disruption—Zimbabweans are among those affected, even as some returnees vow never to go back. Constitutional change in Zimbabwe (CAB3): President Mnangagwa’s assent to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Act No. 3 of 2026 is being framed as a new governance phase, with an education campaign promised to help citizens understand the changes. Education & innovation push: Mnangagwa commissioned the Mutoko Bioeconomy Industrial Park, linking it to “Heritage-Based Education 5.0” and a knowledge-driven route to jobs and rural industrialisation. Culture in motion: First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa launched the Matabeleland South Doek Drive in Beitbridge, celebrating doeks, zambias, song and dance as identity and Ubuntu in action. Public health & safety concerns: Kwekwe’s artisanal mining communities face deadly silicosis risks, with workers describing unsafe conditions underground. Fashion spotlight: Gilmore Tee (Paper Bag Africa) joins a global judging panel for the Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2026, boosting Zimbabwean fashion visibility. Sports & community: Stacey Hyslop heads to Victoria Falls for a home stage race, while Gwanda hosts a heritage festival tying culture to tourism and local livelihoods. Crime and grief: Zimbabwean police say they’re tracking a suspect believed to be in Zimbabwe after a UK triple murder involving a Zimbabwean mother and her two daughters; families are awaiting post-mortems and urging privacy. Labour and rights: ZCTU suspends Secretary General Tirivanhu Marimo after a chaotic NEC meeting, amid questions over the union’s internal disciplinary powers.

Xenophobia in South Africa: Anti-immigration protesters in Johannesburg staged “door to door” raids, seizing foreigners and handing them to police, with Zimbabwean ZEP holders among those caught—while Zimbabweans and other Africans report fear, looting and forced departures. Human cost, regional solidarity: Zimbabwe’s returnees keep arriving in Bulawayo and border centres, and churches are stepping in to “softland” families after traumatic flights. Culture under pressure: Sungura star Alick Macheso is reportedly skipping a South African festival due to security concerns tied to the unrest. Zimbabwe’s creative scene: Harare’s Bokola Film Festival returns this Saturday at Studio Moto, spotlighting African storytelling and youth digital creativity. Education & youth: Matabeleland South is building 40 rural science labs to boost practical learning. Politics & rights at home: Churches and civic groups plan nationwide mass action over CAB3 constitutional amendments, while VP Mohadi headlines a National Child Protection Conference. Tourism: Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom is set to reopen late 2027.

Constitution & Governance: President Emmerson Mnangagwa assented to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act (CAB3), extending presidential terms to 2030 and scrapping direct presidential elections, triggering fresh backlash from civic and church groups who call it a “rogue” move against constitutionalism. Health & Rights: The Medical Services Amendment Act, 2026 now compels private facilities to admit and stabilise emergency patients for at least 48 hours before transfer, even when patients can’t afford treatment—aimed at strengthening access and patient protections. Education & Youth: Mnangagwa opened the 34th Junior Parliament session, pushing competency-based education, digital skills and better water, sanitation and hygiene for every child; in Hwange, pupils led anti-drug campaigns through quizzes and public speaking. Culture & Tourism: Cabinet approved a Zimbabwe gastronomy tourism strategy (2026–2030), framing local food and Ubuntu hospitality as a high-value tourism driver. Migration & Community Care: As xenophobia fears and repatriation pressures continue, the First Lady welcomed returnees at Beitbridge with messages of love and hope, while government reported tens of thousands processed through the border programme. Sports & Entertainment: Brother in the House Zimbabwe gained regional attention as endorsements build momentum for a home-grown reality brand.

Constitutional Politics: President Mnangagwa has signed the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act (CAB3), extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years, scrapping direct presidential elections and pushing the next vote to 2030—sparking fresh backlash over secrecy and democratic rollback. Public Debate & Identity: Joshua Maponga argues Zimbabwe is caught between “benevolent dictatorship,” a democratic republic and traditional monarchy, creating a “paradox” that fuels political confusion. Justice & Protection: Zimbabwe has begun consultations to establish a sex offenders register system, with UNICEF and legal partners supporting the process aimed at protecting vulnerable people and strengthening public confidence. Culture, Women & Health: Dr. Rasha Kelej was named among ABCD Africa’s “100 Most Impactful Voices 2026,” highlighting work on girls’ education and equitable healthcare. Sports & Community: Zimbabwe’s Divine Lunga survived a Johannesburg gun scare; police opened an attempted murder case. International Spotlight: Bedfordshire Police continue a manhunt for a Zimbabwean-heritage suspect, “Mark” Tshuma, after the deaths of his wife and two daughters, believed to have fled to Zimbabwe. Lifestyle & Civic Life: Stanbic Bank kicked off a reusable sanitary pad donation drive for rural schoolgirls in Bindura. Research & Democracy: Afrobarometer launched Round 11 surveys, aiming to cover up to 40 African countries.

Constitutional Shake-Up: President Emmerson Mnangagwa has assented to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act (CAB3), extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and scrapping direct presidential elections in favour of a joint Parliament vote, with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission overseeing the process. Public Safety & Policing: Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula-Simushi says the region has just one police officer for every 201 residents—far below the recommended ratio—while stock theft and cross-border crime continue. Migration, Xenophobia & Returnees: Zimbabwe reports more than 78,000 returnees from South Africa, as reintegration support ramps up amid ongoing anti-foreigner tensions; meanwhile, South Africa’s crackdown continues, including 217 arrests in an illegal mining blitz that included Mozambicans, Zimbabweans and Basotho. Sports & Community Life: Zimbabwe defender Divine Lunga survived a gun attack in Johannesburg’s Hillbrow; police opened an attempted murder probe. Youth & Learning: Matabeleland South has surpassed 90% of its science teacher deployment target, while President Mnangagwa officially opens the Junior Parliament session focused on water, sanitation and hygiene for every child. Energy & Economy: Drilling is set to begin for the Musuma-1 exploration well in the Cabora Bassa Basin, as Zimbabwe inches closer to a new oil and gas frontier.

Constitutional Shake-Up: President Emmerson Mnangagwa has assented to the Constitution of Zimbabwe (Amendment) Act (No. 3), 2026, extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and abolishing direct presidential elections in favour of a vote by Parliament, with a Delimitation Commission and other governance changes now set in law. Sport & Culture Tourism: Durban’s eThekwini Municipality is set to negotiate a host-city agreement for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, pitching the event as a boost for fan engagement, cultural programming and long-term city legacy projects. Football Safety Watch: Zimbabwe defender Divine Lunga survived a gun attack in Johannesburg’s Hillbrow; police opened an attempted murder investigation after reports he was travelling to church when his vehicle was targeted. Music & Identity Debate: South African music executive Nota Baloyi renewed calls for a cultural boycott of Zimbabwe, while Makhadzi urged African unity amid online backlash over her Zimbabwe performance. Public Health: Bulawayo launched its third round of the city-wide polio vaccination campaign, targeting children under five across clinics, schools and outreach points. Migration Pressure: Community leaders in Shallcross and Bayview raised alarm over rising immigrant numbers, linking recent tensions to the wider anti-immigrant protests and repatriation fallout.

Justice & Safety: A Zimbabwe-linked case of alleged serial killings by “Dr. Death” Michael Swango keeps raising questions for victims’ families, with reports of poisoning deaths at Mnene Mission Hospital and Mpilo Hospital. Migration & Education: As South Africa’s anti-immigrant crackdown drives Zimbabweans and other foreign nationals into limbo, ZEP warns schoolchildren may miss exams and struggle to re-enter Zimbabwe’s CAPS-to-Zimsec system. Humanitarian Pressure: Repatriation logistics are shifting toward Musina, but stranded people still face “inhumane” conditions, camp closures, and delays while oversight visits loom. Local Life Under Strain: In Harare, a homeless mother says her daughters are being targeted by sex predators, highlighting how vulnerability grows when housing collapses. Culture & Film: Cinematographer Praise Nkala urges Zimbabweans to support local cinema as Sizolobola heads to Bulawayo, betting on audience turnout to revive the industry. Heritage & Leadership: First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s Dare initiative draws crowds at a traditional court, while the nation mourns Major-Gen (Rtd) Everisto Dzihwema and hears calls to build lasting legacies. Infrastructure: Work on the Mabvuku Interchange in Harare continues, with precast beams and bridge structures progressing. Regional Media: A SADC TV channel project is nearing launch, aiming to share stories across 16 member states in local languages.

Luxury Travel & Culture: Brand g Vacations and BeOnd Airlines unveiled “Africa by Private Jet,” a 14-night ultra-luxury safari linking Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Rwanda with curated cultural experiences. Migration, Safety & Education: Zimbabwe’s ZEP holders say schoolchildren are at risk as anti-migrant protests and deportations disrupt schooling and exam timelines in South Africa; churches in Bulawayo are also receiving returnees. Repatriation Reality Check: Reports describe stranded Zimbabweans and other nationals facing border delays, camp closures and transport bottlenecks around Musina/Beitbridge and Cape Town’s Epping area. Work & Reintegration: A Harare construction firm is recruiting returning Zimbabweans for an upcoming project, aiming to help people rebuild after South Africa. Inclusive Education: Zimbabwe launched the world’s first Global University of Inclusivity, built on an Ubuntu-based model for disability rights and equity. Arts & Identity: A new weekly wildlife TV magazine, “Wild Africa,” is set to debut across Africa, spotlighting conservation stories and charismatic species. Sports & Youth: India named a 15-man T20I squad for Zimbabwe in Harare, while local football delivered a six-goal thriller that’s already being called a match of the season. Regional Ties: Rwanda and Zimbabwe pledged deeper cooperation across healthcare, energy, education and trade. Climate Watch: UN agencies warned El Niño could hit Zimbabwe and other African countries with extreme weather, threatening food security. Music & Pan-African Debate: Makhadzi urged African unity amid Zimbabwe backlash and calls to boycott South African artists.

Digital Transformation Push: NetOne CEO Engineer Raphael Mushanawani says Zimbabwe’s growth now hinges on efficient, intelligent production powered by resilient broadband and real-time digital systems, with investment aimed at healthcare, education and financial inclusion. Pageantry & Culture: Bulawayo opens registrations for the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe provincial qualifier, with auditions running until July 10 as the city looks to keep its strong run of national queens. Returnees, Reintegration & Identity: Zimbabwe confirms nearly 60 000 citizens have returned home from South Africa after anti-illegal immigration pressure, while the Civil Registry is told to fast-track identity documents for returnees to help them access services. Human Stories at the Border: Commentary highlights a “temporary repatriation processing centre” near Musina as a de facto camp, spotlighting the humanitarian strain on families caught in official delays. Music & Debate: Wicknell Chivayo’s proposed US$1.5m performance deal for Chimurenga legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo sparks public debate ahead of Jah Prayzah’s wedding and Chivayo’s birthday. Skills for Second Chances: Bulawayo Prison inmates graduate from an eight-week beauty therapy course, showing how vocational training can support life after release. Youth, Education & SDGs: VP Dr Kembo Mohadi backs education and skills development after the SDGs Schools Essay Competition grew to 30 658 learners. Tourism Upgrade: Cabinet backs a US$66.9m integrated Tourism Park in Victoria Falls’ Masuwe SEZ, promising major infrastructure and a new tourism hub. National Heritage: President Mnangagwa presides over the burial of national hero Maj-Gen (Retired) Evaristo Dzihwema at the National Heroes’ Acre. Women’s Festival: The women-only Phinifa Fest returns on August 15 with a bigger edition celebrating cultural fashion and food entrepreneurship. Chess for Kids: First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa becomes patron of Zimbabwe Chess Federation juniors as young players head to the African Schools Chess Championship. Football Weekend: Dynamos thrash Agama 4-0 while Highlanders draw Simba Bhora 1-1 in PSL Matchday 21.

Migration & Returnees: Nearly 60,000 Zimbabweans have returned home as South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration pressure and xenophobic protests intensify, with many facing delays and hardship at Beitbridge and Musina, including luggage not arriving and families sleeping outdoors. Humanitarian Response: Church and civil groups are urging compassion and support for traumatised returnees, while buses and processing centres struggle to keep up with the surge. Culture & Identity: Dominican Convent High School in Harare has adopted a natural hair policy, celebrating African identity and self-expression. Arts, Music & Politics: Econet Victoria Falls concert plans reportedly collapsed amid xenophobic tensions, reigniting debate on whether politics and anti-foreigner sentiment are shaping entertainment bookings. Books & Learning: A new book bridges Ndebele and Shona through language learning, while another debut uses everyday stories to make actuarial science relatable. Sports: Tendai Zimuto won the 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, and Highlanders vs Simba Bhora headlines PSL Matchday 21.

Migration & Repatriation: South Africa has started moving Zimbabweans (and some Malawians) from Cape Town’s Epping processing centre to Musina in Limpopo, with buses shuttling people for vetting and return as aid groups report health issues like diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms. Youth & Education: Zimbabwe’s Junior Parliament is set to hold its session and the Day of the African Child commemoration at the new Parliament building, spotlighting youth advocacy on issues like drugs and substance abuse. Border Community Schooling: A boarding facility at Cituripasi Secondary School in Beitbridge is nearing completion, giving safer access for girls who previously faced long, risky journeys. Sports & Culture: The 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon opens with thousands expected, blending elite racing, tourism and community energy around Victoria Falls. Football Discipline: The PSL’s ruling on the abandoned Chahwanda Stadium match sends a clear message: pitch invasions and violence have no place in Zimbabwean football. Arts & Theatre: Cont Mhlanga’s political satire The Members returns to Bulawayo’s Amakhosi Theatre for July 17–18. Health Infrastructure: Mpilo Central Hospital’s radiotherapy upgrades are on track, with new cancer machines and a CT scanner expected to start serving patients by year-end. Remembering a Scribe: Veteran journalist Mkhululi “Mkhays” Sibanda is mourned for his mentorship and his liberation-history column Lest We Forget.

Youth & Music Education: Collingwood Music Festival’s biggest youth academy yet is set to run for five days, welcoming 30 subsidised students for masterclasses plus leadership and outdoor activities. Politics & Youth Rights: A new wave of criticism surrounds CAB3, with writers arguing it locks “bornfree” Zimbabweans out of meaningful power and extends executive control. Digital Trust & Society: Zimbabweans are debating whether AI is making “fake evidence” harder to challenge, as leaked recordings reshape public conversations. Migration Crisis & Human Stories: South Africa’s crackdown is spilling into Zimbabwe’s borders, with thousands processed at Musina and buses expected to clear backlogs; returnees describe fear, exhaustion and selling belongings to get home. Child Protection: A teacher–learner allegation at Bonda Girls High School reignites calls for stronger safeguarding beyond policies. Culture Under Pressure: Anti-illegal immigration protests are already affecting entertainment ties, with some South African acts reportedly dropped from Zimbabwe line-ups and promoters distancing themselves. Sports & Culture: Zimbabwe’s media mourns veteran journalist Mkhululi Sibanda, remembered for “Lest We Forget” and preserving liberation history. Justice & Accountability: ZRP denies viral claims of police assaulting returnees at Beitbridge, saying the footage is unrelated and investigations are underway.