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Rutendo Nyeve in VICTORIA FALLS

ZIMBABWE yesterday officially assumed the Presidency of the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15), taking over from the People’s Republic of China, with President Mnangagwa urging the world to act boldly and decisively to safeguard wetlands and address drivers of wetlands loss.

The handover was witnessed by President Mnangagwa at the official opening of COP15 in Victoria Falls in a momentous ceremony marked by symbolism and global solidarity.

The event was graced by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Vice President of Malawi, Dr Michael Bizwick Usi and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Russel Mmiso Dlamini.

Also present were representatives from the United Nations, conservation bodies and indigenous communities, underscoring the global significance of wetland preservation.

Outgoing COP president, Mr Xia Jun of China, formally handed over the Ramsar Convention flag to Zimbabwe’s Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyn Ndlovu, symbolising the transfer of leadership for the next three years.

President Mnangagwa hailed the occasion as a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe and the global community.

“Today, we thus, gather as representatives of our nations and as stewards of a shared heritage and future. We are one-united people and citizens of our planet Earth, with a sacred duty to protect that which has been entrusted to us by Almighty God, for both present and future generations.

“It is in this spirit, therefore, that the theme of this Conference, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,’ is timely, in its emphasis on the role of wetlands in ecological health, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience,” he said.

The President underscored the importance of wetlands to economies.

“Wetlands, which include swamps, marshes, fens, bogs, estuaries, mangroves, and peatlands, are crucial habitats for about 40 percent of the earth’s species. They provide livelihoods for more than a billion people. To neglect wetlands would be to abandon a critical portion of our existence,” he said.

He further outlined the multifaceted benefits of wetlands, including water purification, flood control, and carbon storage, which align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“All these benefits complement efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in addressing poverty (Goal 1) and hunger (Goal 2); water supply challenges (Goal 6); promoting sustainable human settlements (Goal 11); Climate Action (Goal 13) and Partnerships (Goal 17),” he said.

Despite their importance, President Mnangagwa warned that wetlands face unprecedented threats.

“Wetlands are among the most threatened habitats on Earth. They face challenges such as habitat loss and degradation due to urbanisation and development, agricultural expansion, and climate change, leading to shifts in wetland distribution, and altered hydrological cycles, among others,” he said.

He called for urgent, collaborative action to reverse the decline, stressing the need for innovative restoration techniques, robust policy frameworks, and community involvement.

“Now is the time for us to change our mind-sets and start implementing multi-faceted and collaborative approaches towards protecting our wetlands,” he said.

The President outlined Zimbabwe’s strides in wetland conservation since ratifying the Ramsar Convention on 3 May 2013.

“Zimbabwe embarked on its journey in wetland conservation with a notable commitment to environmental stewardship by ratifying the Ramsar Convention. Since then, we have designated seven (7) Ramsar sites, highlighting our dedication to wetland conservation and preservation, which resonates with our commitment to provide all Zimbabweans with a clean, safe, and healthy environment as enshrined in the National Constitution,” he said.

A key outcome of COP15 is the anticipated endorsement of the Victoria Falls Declaration, a landmark framework aimed at galvanising global efforts for wetland conservation.

President Mnangagwa elaborated on its significance:

“At the centre of this Declaration is the acknowledgement of the critical ecological, social, and economic importance of wetlands, and their global significance for sustainable livelihoods.

“The Declaration also serves as a guide and reminder for us to conserve, restore, and sustainably manage wetlands. Equally, we should remain seized with the enormous challenges facing wetland conservation, especially in the context of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.”

He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to championing resource mobilisation and international collaboration. “

“My Government commits to champion resource mobilisation for sustainable wetland management, rehabilitation, and collaboration. This includes building strong linkages among partners such as other multilateral environmental agencies, countries, institutions, the private sector, and stakeholders

“The scale of wetland loss and its associated threats demands immediate and cooperative action from all stakeholders. Time has come to secure the guaranteed preservation of wetlands as a foundation for a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future,” he said.

He urged delegates to move beyond rhetoric and embrace implementation.

“While the formulation of policies and adoption of resolutions are essential, their effective implementation is even more critical, along with our readiness to invest in wetland protection. Therefore, let this COP15 be recognised for taking concrete steps from discussion to implementation,” he said.

The President expressed gratitude to the outgoing COP President, China, and the Ramsar Secretariat for their support.

“I appreciate the sterling work done by the outgoing COP President, the Government of the People’s Republic of China. The guidance and support you provided to us in preparation for our Presidency are highly appreciated,” he said.

With the declaration of COP15 officially open, Zimbabwe now stands at the helm of global wetland conservation efforts, poised to lead with innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment.

As the world watches, the Victoria Falls Declaration is set to be a cornerstone in the fight to preserve these vital ecosystems for generations to come.

Isdore Guvamombe
Reflections
It was silly cold in Chimufombo, especially near the confluence of Mupinge and Chapfeni rivers.
I stayed across the river, with grandmother Media Masakara (MHSRIP) and her son Ignatius (sekuru Gina) again (MHSRIP), the rest of the Masakara family members had fled the war to Harare.

A faint warm breeze stirred the sleepy riverine vegetation leaves, bringing with it fragrance of flowering grass and trees, and a breath of something languid, inducing idleness, voluptuousness and strangeness.

On this night of July 17, 1978, moonlight slanted down through the leaves and blossoms of the thicket, making whimsical coloured patterns that flickered on the ground.

Under a normal night excursion, the moon would have been magnificent, but our circumstances needed it to be humble and soft. Not shouting!

The war was ragging and the pall of death was harshly all over. A woman had been killed at Farm 29, Nyakapupu, just across the river, in a night battle, that left villagers at a night vigil, scampering for cover or injured.

Tree leaves cracked under our feet and I was particularly worried about the creepy creatures, but my high cut canvas shoes gave me some comfort.

This July night was unique. As I cast my eyes on the forest, there was a ghostly figure of the day itself. I watched the forest again and again, and again and again. Again! It was tinged superfluous!

The baskets of food were heavy and hot. The food was still steaming. Grandmother (MHSRIP) walked and broke into fox trot, her bare feet leaving tractive footprints.
I followed closely trying to keep pace with her. It was a delicate move. She was deft footed. My uncle Ignatius (MHSRIP) was in tow. He was a year slight older than me and carrying a much heavier load.

The combatants were hungry and waiting for the food at the base. The war was hot and they needed to eat and move on. They had a target they needed to hit late that night.

I carried a basket delicately on my head and a water container dangled from my right hand. After a short distance, I would change the container from one hand to the other. So did Sekuru Gina as I called Ignatius.

But granma was resilient.

Suddenly we came to an open stretch, which was the most dangerous, for Rhodesian soldiers could easily snoop on us. Grandmother plunged into the open space at the same speed and without looking back or sideways, she increased her speed to a stretch where the grass was tallish.

Soon we were past the open spaces and we started another forest and the footpath cut across mercilessly, like a sharp knife. On the verge, I saw the green grass turning a golden hue from the dainty patches of light that flickered from the moon and quivered as if they were living. The moon was now about to set.

Then there were fire-coloured butterflies that made the grass under the trees look like it was about to catch fire. They flew effortlessly, but seemingly without purpose. My mind somehow told me they had a purpose, known to them.

Suddenly a voice asked for a password and grandmother quickly answered correctly. Soon we found ourselves at the base- a delicately chosen rock promontory in the middle of Miombo woodlands- where Msasa trees provided cover on the verges.

The Zimbabwe National Liberation Army, the military wing of Zanu-PF, had a huge base there.

It was near Chimufombo and carefully located near the confluence of Chapfeni and Mupinge rivers. The frogs that proffered a cacophony of sounds went dead silent as we approached the base.

They were probably listening to our conversation with the combatants. Establishing a base near a river was strategic. The frogs always informed about visitors. When there was no movement and dead silence, they would sing loud like drunken villagers, but as soon as a person appeared, they would shut up.

Back to basics, we tested our food and water as a safety ritual and then the boys, as the combatants were obliquely referred to, shared the food and ate quietly.

They were very orderly. Others lay in positions, guarding the base and they also got their share. Grandmother was asked several questions about the war, the execution of the war and the thinking in the villages. She was asked about the Rhodesian forces, their frequency and type of weaponry and I was shocked by her knowledge. She answered with confidence. The commander Cde Mcduff Mandebvu spoke with a soft but authoritative voice.

Soon we left the base, using the same route. Two “boys” as the freedom fighters were referred to, escorted us for some time then suddenly they bade us farewell and were swallowed by the night.

The moon had set by this time. As we approached home, we heard gunshots. Combat. Contact. There was light gunfire, which ran in tot, tot, tot and tot. Then there was a loud bang. It must have been a bazooka.

Then there was dead silence. Silence, silence, silence! Cemetery silence. Silence!

For an hour or so he hid in the thicket on an anthill.

The battle shifted to some thicket in the place called Gonyo, a Korekore language for a river bend or meander.

Here Mupinge River meanders as it flows down to its confluence with Dande River in Mukwenya area. Here again, Mupinge River demarcates Chimufombo and Nyakapupu. Here again, it was very thick and hard to manouvre even in broad day light.

Here again, it was believed to be a scared haven on the spirit mediums of the north. Finally, here is where the Rhodesians perished that night.

Early morning, Rhodesian Air Force helicopters flew like birds combing the area of dead bodies. We could not count bodies as they were picked but we could tell from the pickings that it was sad.

Upon arriving home in the wee hours, we huddled in one of the houses, then moved to the nearby banana plantation, for the Rhodesians had a tendency to drop bombs on family homes. It was a hectic day.

Grandpa, has a huge banana plantation and for half the day we hid under its cover until calm returned.

Thereafter, stories of Zanla conquest were told in abundance. The Rhodesians slowed their activities in the area, while freedom fighters increased presence. They would frolic during the day and attack outside the zone at night.

Farirai Machivenyika

Senior Reporter

GOVERNMENT has so far mobilised ZiG137 million and US$13 million for farmers that have delivered grain to the Grain Marketing Board, with the parastatal expected to start processing payments this week, Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka told the National Assembly yesterday.

Farmers, Minister Masuka said, have delivered 200 000 tonnes of grain to various buyers out of which 30 000 tonnes will go to the GMB.

“I was talking to the Minister of Finance (Professor Mthuli Ncube) and he informed me that Treasury has mobilised ZiG134 million and US$13 million for payment to farmers that have delivered grain to the GMB and they should receive their money this week or early next week,” he said.

Since the structured liberalisation of grain marketing was introduced in 2020, GMB only buys grain from farmers supported through the Presidential Inputs Scheme and joint ventures entered into by the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority.

The other grain is bought by financial institutions that fund farmers and other private contractors. Self-financing farmers are free to sell their grain to buyers of their choice.

Dr Masuka also told the National Assembly that Government will next Tuesday unveil plans for the 2025-2026 summer cropping   season.

The plan will focus on the support that will be extended to farmers and production targets in relation to expected weather conditions, among other issues.

Zimbabwe recorded a bumper harvest in the 2024-2025 season with an expected output of over 2,2 million tonnes of grain, which has resulted in economic growth projections of 6 percent.

The bumper harvest followed a devastating El-Nino-induced drought experienced the previous season.

Ivan Zhakata

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has declared the horrific road traffic accident that claimed 17 lives in Chitungwiza yesterday a national disaster, thereby paving the way for urgent State support and assistance to the grieving families.

The declaration was announced by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe during an emotionally charged address to bereaved families at a local funeral parlour today.

The fatal accident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at Hunyani Bridge along Seke Road when a commuter omnibus collided with a 30-tonne haulage truck, resulting in one of the country’s deadliest road disasters in recent memory.

Minister Garwe assured the public that investigations into the cause of the crash are underway and said measures will be put in place to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As the nation mourns, funeral arrangements are being coordinated by the Government, while counselling and psychosocial support services have been availed to the affected families.

The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and improved infrastructure to curb the country’s rising number of fatal road accidents.

Remember Deketeke

In a harrowing scene that unfolded along Seke Road at Hunyani Bridge near Water Works, 17 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating collision between a 30-tonne haulage truck and a commuter omnibus this morning.

Three people were immediately rushed to the nearest hospital in critical condition.

The accident left the mangled remains of the kombi wedged beneath the massive truck, in what eyewitnesses have described as one of the most disturbing accidents in recent memory.

Although authorities are yet to confirm what happened, the crash is believed to have been triggered by a Honda Fit that allegedly veered into the path of the haulage truck, forcing the driver to swerve into the opposite lane.

In doing so, the truck reportedly collided head-on with the oncoming kombi, dragging and crushing it beneath its heavy frame.

The aftermath has been catastrophic.

Twisted metal, shattered glass, and debris are littering the tarmac as emergency services work frantically to retrieve those trapped.

By the time rescuers arrived, the kombi had been completely flattened, with only fragments of its chassis visible from beneath the truck’s undercarriage.

The road has remained closed as fire and ambulance services continue with their grim task of retrieving bodies and clearing the wreck.

The police are also at the site, working to identify the victims as distraught families begin to gather.

Yeukai Karengezeka

Court Correspondent

Two sales agents appeared in court on Monday, facing charges of fraud and money laundering following allegations that they orchestrated a scheme involving fictitious claim forms to defraud their employer of over US$23 000.

The accused, Wayne Juawo (22) and Jacob Mutambirwa (22), were arraigned before Harare magistrate Ms Ruth Moyo.

They were both granted US$200 bail each and are scheduled to return to court on August 28. The complainant in the matter is Goldenclem Credit, represented by the company’s operations manager, Mr Terrence Taka.

Prosecutor Mr Takudzwa Jambawu told the court that between January 2025 and May 2025, Juawo and Mutambirwa allegedly created fraudulent claim forms using the credentials of various civil servants.

These fake claims were fed into the company’s system, resulting in the release of products purportedly to genuine clients.

However, instead of delivering the products to the clients, the duo allegedly converted them to personal use.

To conceal their actions, the accused reportedly deleted the fictitious claim forms from the computer system to prevent salary deductions by the Salary Services Bureau (SSB), which would have flagged the transactions.

The court heard that on July 19, 2025, Juawo was arrested, and a search at his house led to the recovery of several items that had been fraudulently acquired.

These included a headboard, 3 television sets, a solar system, a chainsaw and one partum printer.

The total prejudice suffered by Goldenclem Credit due to Juawo’s actions was US$16 273.

However, goods worth only US$4 000 were recovered. On the same day, Mutambirwa was also apprehended and a search at his house resulted in the recovery of two sofas.

Goldenclem Credit suffered a loss of US$7 717 due to Mutambirwa’s actions and goods worth only US$1 500 were recovered.

The fraudulent scheme cost Goldenclem Credit US$23 990 and only US$5 500 worth of goods were recovered during the investigation.