news and current affairs.
Zambia, Eswatini get HIV drug doses
Approximately one thousand doses of Gilead Sciences' HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, were delivered to Zambia and Eswatini. This delivery initiates a United States program to supply the long-acting drug to regions with high HIV prevalence. A senior State Department official, Jeremy Lewin, clarified that U.S.-funded doses would not be provided to South Africa, despite its significant HIV burden, encouraging the nation to fund its own supply. The U.S. State Department had previously announced a plan to make lenacapavir available at cost through initiatives like PEPFAR and the Global Fund. Gilead is currently seeking regulatory approvals for distribution in several other high-burden sub-Saharan African countries, including Rwanda...
Africa seeks coordinated drug response
Mozambican Justice Minister Mateus Saize has urged coordinated, evidence-based actions to address Africa's escalating drug crisis. Speaking at a Continental Technical Consultation Meeting in Maputo, he reported that substances like cocaine and heroin, once primarily in transit, are now infiltrating local markets. He also highlighted the increased abuse of pharmaceutical products such as codeine and tramadol. Minister Saize stated that the continent's youthful demographic, with over sixty percent of the population under twenty-five, heightens the risks of drug use initiation. This situation threatens key sectors, including education and social cohesion. He explained that the meeting, organized by the African Union Commission, aims to...
Mozambique sets $342bn climate plan
Mozambique has approved a National Climate Finance Strategy requiring an estimated 341.9 billion dollars to implement its goals through 2034. The strategy aims to mobilize national and international resources, emphasizing partnerships with the private sector and the use of innovative financial instruments like debt-for-climate swaps. The plan identifies five strategic pillars, including reforms to the legal, fiscal, and financial systems to create a favorable environment for climate investment. It also focuses on building national capacity and improving access to various funding sources, including grants and carbon credits. This initiative responds to the country's high vulnerability to extreme weather, which threatens its coast and...
Mozambique, Türkiye in defence talks
The newly established Mozambique-Türkiye Defence Industry Forum represents a strategic platform intended to strengthen both nations' defence and security forces. Mozambique's Minister Chume stated that the forum addresses global and regional demands by fostering solid, mutually beneficial partnerships. He described it as a privileged space for developing innovative technological solutions. Minister Chume expressed his hope that this first meeting would become a regular event, consolidating long-term cooperation. He concluded that the dialogue should result in more capable defence forces, a strengthened national industry, and a safer, more prosperous Mozambique.
Police officers charged over dagga haul
Three police officers and two accomplices in Bulawayo have been charged with possessing approximately 11 kilograms of marijuana, valued at 1,100 dollars. Frank Taona Shumba, Mgcini Mpofu, and Njabulo Sibanda, all officers, appeared in court with Nomsa Magutshwa and Mgadi Dhlamini. They were arrested following a controlled delivery operation after the drugs were discovered by border officials in a vehicle arriving from South Africa. Authorities found the concealed marijuana at the Beitbridge Border Post. A subsequent investigation, involving detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics units in Beitbridge and Bulawayo, led to the arrest of Dhlamini as he attempted to collect the parcel. He then identified Magutshwa as the intended final...
Archbishop Paul Mwazha dies at 107
Church leaders across the nation are mourning the death of Archbishop Paul Mwazha, the founder of the African Apostolic Church, who passed away at the age of 107. Known widely as Mutumwa Mwazha, he was celebrated as a pivotal and influential evangelist throughout Africa. Fellow clergy members described him as a mentor to countless leaders and a resilient spiritual figure who began his ministry during the colonial era. Many noted his unwavering commitment and significant role before and after the country's independence. His passing was met with profound sorrow, with several religious figures calling him a general of God and a beacon of wisdom. The African Apostolic Church confirmed his death through an official statement from its...
Rusape head robbed of car, bikes
Armed robbers besieged the home of a primary school headmaster in Rusape, making off with a vehicle, motorcycles, and other valuables. Benedict Dadaya, the head of Mabvazuwa Primary School, was attacked by eight assailants armed with machetes and knives. The assailants subdued Dadaya by tying his hands and legs, stabbing him in the shoulder and back. They then stole his recently acquired Toyota D4D double cab, two motorcycles, cash, and cellphones. His wife was also threatened and robbed. The total value of the stolen property was reported to be nearly 8,800 dollars. Police confirmed the incident, stating that Dadaya received hospital treatment for his injuries before being discharged. An investigation is currently underway, and...
Probe launched into Chibuwe bus deal
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has initiated a full-scale investigation into the procurement of a school bus by Chibuwe Primary School. This follows demonstrations by parents who alleged the bus was purchased for 220,000 dollars without a tender and that its price may have been inflated. Due to the allegations, the school's headmaster, identified as Mr. Damiso, has been placed on leave to facilitate the investigation. Parents also raised concerns about a lack of financial transparency, claiming the bus is hired out without proper accounting and that unauthorized examination fees are being charged. The Manicaland Provincial Education Director confirmed that investigative teams and auditors would examine both the...
Hobhouse's mother held over the child killing
A woman in Hobhouse has been arrested after allegedly stabbing her three-year-old son to death. Police identified the suspect as Netsai Chikuni, who is accused of fatally wounding her son, Ngonidzashe Njerera, in the head and neck. The incident occurred at a residence where Chikuni was visiting her absent brother. According to police accounts, tenants in the home reported hearing Chikuni shouting and assaulting the child during the night. They stated that the child stopped crying after several hours. Police discovered the young boy's body in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds. Two bloodstained knives were found at the scene. Chikuni was also found with self-inflicted cuts on her legs and hands and was subsequently arrested. The...
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