Tuesday, June 17, 2025
spot_imgspot_img
Home Blog

Trump administration considers adding Zimbabwe to travel ban list

Donald Trump’s government is considering banning Zimbabweans from travelling to America, along with citizens from a group of 25 African countries.

 

According to a a State Department internal memo reviewed by The Washington Post ,a 60-day deadline has been set for the targeted nations to conform with certain requirements, or face a full or partial entry ban.

The United States is considering restricting entry to citizens of an additional 36 countries in what would be a significant expansion of the travel ban announced by the Trump administration early this month.

Among the new list of countries that could face visa bans or other restrictions are 25 African nations, including significant U.S. partners such as Egypt and Djibouti, plus countries in the Caribbean, Central Asia and several Pacific Island nations.

A State Department spokesperson said the agency would not comment on internal deliberations or communications.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Such a move would mark another escalation in the Trump administration’s aggressive crackdown on immigration.

The memo, which was signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and sent Saturday to U.S. diplomats who work with the countries, said the governments of listed nations were being given 60 days to meet new benchmarks and requirements established by the State Department.

It set a deadline of 8 a.m. Wednesday for them to provide an initial action plan for meeting the requirements.

The countries facing scrutiny in the memo: Angola; Antigua and Barbuda; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cabo Verde; Cambodia; Cameroon; Democratic Republic of Congo;

Djibouti; Dominica; Ethiopia; Egypt; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Kyrgyzstan; Liberia; Malawi; Mauritania; Niger; Nigeria; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia;

Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; South Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Tonga; Tuvalu; Uganda; Vanuatu; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

Simba Bhora Edge Highlanders in Five-Goal Thriller

Defending champions Simba Bhora kept their title defence on track with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Highlanders in a pulsating Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.

 

The result sees Joel Luphahla’s side maintain second place in the standings, now just two points behind leaders MWOS FC after the Norton-based club was held to a 2-2 draw at Triangle.

Simba Bhora stormed into an early lead through Isaka Gurirab’s opener before Emmanuel Ziocha’s brace, including a second-half winner, proved decisive.

Highlanders showed resilience with goals from Melikhaya Ncube and Never Rauzhi, but ultimately fell short in their comeback attempt.

In Sunday’s other PSL action, Scottland FC registered a 1-0 victory over Kwekwe United at Rufaro Stadium.

Castle Lager PSL Matchday 15 Results

Bikita Minerals 1-1 Dynamos

CAPS United 1-0 Chicken Inn

Ngezi Platinum 1-1 Manica Diamonds

FC Platinum 4-0 ZPC Kariba

Yadah 1-0 Herentals

Greenfuel 0-1 TelOne

Highlanders 2-3 Simba Bhora

Triangle United 2-2 MWOS FC

Scottland FC 1-0 Kwekwe United

Mash East and Mat South Crown Champions Ahead of Chibuku Neshamwari National Finals

The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival provincial competitions reached an exciting milestone this weekend as Mashonaland East and Matabeleland South selected their representatives for the national finals set for July 19 at Mutare Showgrounds.

 

In Mashonaland East, Goromonzi Arts claimed victory at Padhana Bar in Mutoko with their captivating Mbende dance, securing the region’s sole ticket to the national competition.

Zvemberi Arts and Nzwananai Arts followed closely in second and third places, respectively, after delivering equally spirited performances.

Meanwhile, in Matabeleland South, How Mine-based Sekusile Dance Group impressed judges with their energetic Isitshikitsha routine, earning top honours.

Fellow How Mine group Beni Arinoti took second place, while Blanket Mine rounded out the top three.

There were cash prizes for the top performers, with the provincial champion earning $2,500, followed by $1,500 for second place and $1,000 for third.

The provincial winners will now prepare for the highly anticipated national finals, where they will compete against champions from other regions for ultimate bragging rights.

Attention now shifts to Harare, where the final provincial competition will take place on June 21.

Harare Hosts Game-Changing Media Workshop for Creatives

On June 14th, Jubilee Hall (Corner 5th & Fife Avenue) will host the highly anticipated Media Workshop, bringing together industry experts, videographers, photographers, editors, content creators, churches, corporates, educational institutions, and students.

 

This dynamic event promises to ignite creativity, foster innovation, and shape the future of storytelling.

“A picture is forever and capturing the moment with precision is key’’ said Tinopona Katsande Hodges, a TV, radio and media practitioner.

“I saw that this particular workshop is offering a structured learning experience and allows one to learn specific skills at such an affordable price as well as a brilliant panel so I am definitely attending she said.

The workshop boasts an impressive lineup of facilitators, including Petronella Tasara, Head of Productions and Senior Producer at Brightfire Pictures (South Africa), who has worked across West, East, and Southern Africa on major productions, including international reality shows such as Big Brother Africa and Old Mutual Amazing Voices.

With over 15 years of experience, Petronella has honed her skills in creating high-quality African content for the international stage, blending powerful storytelling with stunning visuals.

Her motto, “Don’t forget to laugh, even at yourself,” reflects her commitment to making every production both professional and enjoyable.

“The art of storytelling is at the heart of everything we do in media,” says Petronella Tasara.

“This workshop is a chance to learn from the best, share ideas, and take your skills to new heights. I am excited to share my expertise and experiences with participants and help them navigate the complexities of the media industry.”

Petronella Tasara will be joined by other esteemed facilitators, including  Nobert Mapfoche, Cinematographer and MultiChoice Talent Factory Alumni, Kudzai Jimu, Head of Production at Hope Magamedia; Fr. Johnston Z. Mlambo,

Social Communications Coordinator, Archdiocese of Harare; Panashe Ushewokunze, Fixer and Production Coordinator at Megerall Investments; and Tsitsi Ndabambi, Multi-award-winning photojournalist.

Tsitsi emphasises the importance of professional photography: “In today’s fast-paced media environment, knowing how to take visually stunning images is crucial. I’m excited to share my expertise with participants and help them unlock their creative potential, capturing the essence of African narratives with precision and passion.”

The Media Workshop will cover a range of topics, including videography, editing, livestreaming, and photography. Media houses will also have the opportunity to exhibit and showcase their work, providing a platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate.

“In today’s digital age, being empowered to create impactful content is crucial for individuals and organizations to stand out and make a lasting impression,” said Liz Dziva, organizer of event.

“This workshop is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to tell their stories effectively, amplify their brand voices, and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways” she said.

The event is supported by Impeccable Solutions, Davidos Restaurant, Radio Chiedza Jesuit Communications, Archdiocese of Harare Social Communications and Open Air Cinemas

For registration, contact +263 772 219 562/+263 7854 69302 or email edziva@gmail.com

Young Jonn and Asake Team Up for Summer Anthem “Che Che”

Multi-talented hitmaker Young Jonn returns with “Che Che”, a vibrant new single featuring Asake, one of Afrobeats’ most dynamic and influential voices.

 

“Che Che” marks the first taste of Young Jonn’s upcoming project Blue Disco, and Asake’s first release since February’s “Why Love.”

A celebration of self-assured swagger, effortless charm, and living your best life, “Che Che” is an infectious Afro-pop anthem that pulses with undeniable energy.

With sleek melodies, playful lyricism, and a bounce that embodies soft-life luxury, the track is poised to soundtrack everything from club nights to summertime drives.

A teaser video shared by Young Jonn earlier this week immediately trended on Twitter (X) and has already clocked over 6 million views on Instagram setting the tone for what promises to be one of the biggest collaborations of the season.

“This song feels like a moment,” says Young Jonn. “It’s about showing up, feeling good, and enjoying the ride especially when you know you look fly. Linking up with Asake made it even more special.”

As two genre-defining powerhouses, Young Jonn and Asake deliver a track that blends charisma, confidence, and musical excellence.

“Che Che” not only sets the stage for Blue Disco, but also further solidifies both artists’ reputations as Afrobeats frontrunners shaping the sound of today.

Young Jonn (born John Saviours Udomboso) is a renowned Afro-pop producer, singer, and songwriter, best known as “The Wicked Producer.”

He began producing music in 2009 and rose to prominence with hit records like Olamide’s “Shakiti Bobo” and Naira Marley’s “Mafo.”

Over the past decade, he has worked with major artists including Davido, Tiwa Savage, Don Jazzy, and Kizz Daniel, earning multiple awards and industry acclaim.

In 2021, he signed with Chocolate City Music and transitioned into a full-fledged artist with the release of Love Is Not Enough Vol. 1, featuring the hit single “Dada” (Remix with Davido). His 2022 breakout solo track “Xtra Cool” became a viral sensation, charting across 89 countries and amassing over 196 million streams.

 

Mutare to Host 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Finals as 5 Provinces Secure Spots

The cultural heartbeat of Zimbabwe is set to echo through the eastern highlands as Mutare prepares to host the grand finale of the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival.

 

The national finals will take place on July 19 at the Mutare Showgrounds, bringing together the best traditional dance groups from across the country in a vibrant celebration of Zimbabwean heritage.

So far, five out of the ten provincial champions have been crowned, marking the halfway point in the lead-up to the prestigious national showdown.

The remaining five provinces—Harare, Bulawayo, Matabeleland South, Mashonaland East, and Mashonaland Central—are still in the process of selecting their representatives.

Since the festival’s kickoff on May 10, thousands of Zimbabweans have flocked to provincial competitions, drawn by the unifying power of traditional dance.

Organised in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), the event is a cornerstone of the country’s cultural calendar.

Meet the Finalists (So Far):

ProvinceGroup NameDance Style
MidlandsUndi GureZambia Nyau
ManicalandSemvumbaDinhe
Mashonaland WestKatawa Traditional DanceMhande
Matabeleland NorthImvimbi ArtsUmzansi
MasvingoJeketera RenyaungweBira

These groups will be among the ten finalists competing for top honours and a share of the generous prize pool:

  • 1st Prize: USD 15,000
  • 2nd Prize: USD 10,000
  • 3rd Prize: USD 7,500

The national finals promise a full day of entertainment, starting at 10 AM and running until late.

Entry is free, making it an accessible and inclusive event for the whole community. Spectators can expect an explosion of colour, rhythm, and tradition as dance troupes showcase a rich tapestry of Zimbabwe’s cultural identity.

More than a competition, the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival is a celebration of who we are as a nation—honouring the dances, stories, and rhythms passed down through generations.

The festival is proudly sponsored by Delta Corporation through its flagship brand Chibuku, in collaboration with cultural stakeholders. Delta Corporation is one of Zimbabwe’s largest beverage companies, with a legacy of supporting the arts and community development across the nation.

POSB Champions Financial Literacy as 2025 Capital Markets High Schools Quiz Kicks Off

The People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) has reaffirmed its dedication to youth empowerment and financial literacy by continuing its sponsorship of the 2025 Capital Markets High Schools Quiz Competition, which officially launched yesterday.

 

This year’s edition holds special significance as it coincides with POSB’s 120th anniversary, marking over a century of service, inclusion, and community development across Zimbabwe.

Organised by Financial Markets Indaba in partnership with Zimpapers, the annual quiz brings together students from 20 high schools nationwide.

The competition serves as a platform to equip young people with practical financial knowledge, covering vital topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and capital market fundamentals.

“We are proud to have been a sponsor of this remarkable initiative since its inception,” said David Makacha, POSB Public Relations Manager.

“Our continued support is not just a tradition—it reflects our deep belief in the power of education and financial literacy to transform lives and communities.”

Makacha emphasised that introducing financial literacy at the high school level aligns with the government’s Education 5.0 model and heritage-based curriculum, which stress real-world skills and innovation.

“We want young people to leave school not only with academic qualifications but also with the confidence to manage their finances, create employment, and start entrepreneurial ventures,” he added.This year’s competition features 20 high schools, divided into four groups:

  • Group A: Zengeza 1 High School, Lifelong Education College, Chipindura High School, Dominican Convent Bulawayo, Rusununguko High School
  • Group B: Mabvuku High School, Errymaple International School, Monte Casino High School, Madeli High School, Marondera High School
  • Group C: Dararombe High School, St Dominics Chishawasha, St Johns Emerald Hill, Thornhill Airbase, Harare High School
  • Group D: Sandringham High School, Pamushana High School, Jameson High School, Eastview High School, Cygnat Private College

The competition fosters teamwork, academic excellence, and financial awareness, creating a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for participating students.

POSB’s support for the quiz forms part of its broader Corporate Social Responsibility  strategy, focused on education and financial literacy, health and philanthropy, and sustainability.

The bank sees its involvement as a way to prepare young Zimbabweans for the realities of adulthood in a fast-changing economic landscape.

SADC Ministers to Chart Education & Innovation Roadmap at Key Zimbabwe Meeting

Education and technology ministers from across Southern Africa will gather in Harare next week for a crucial SADC meeting that aims to transform the region’s approach to education and technological development.

 

The high-level summit, set for June 20, will evaluate current policies and set new directions for human capital growth and innovation across the 16-nation bloc.

Under the leadership of Zimbabwe’s Higher Education Minister Dr. Frederick Shava, delegates will examine several critical areas.

They will assess the development of the SADC University of Transformation, an ambitious project designed to foster entrepreneurship and facilitate technology transfer throughout the region.

The meeting will also finalise the Regional Higher Education Strategic Framework, which will serve as a blueprint for institutional advancement across member states.

The agenda includes updating technical education policies to better prepare students for contemporary challenges like climate change and the digital revolution.

Ministers will review progress on implementing the 2017 Science and Technology Protocol, which seeks to strengthen regional cooperation in these vital fields.

Additional focus areas include strategies to preserve Indigenous Knowledge Systems and initiatives to increase female participation in STEM careers.

“This gathering represents a pivotal moment for our region’s future,” noted SADC Deputy Executive Secretary Angèle Makombo N’tumba.

“The policies we establish here will determine how effectively we equip our young people with the skills needed in tomorrow’s job market.”

The meeting comes amid growing concerns about foundational education standards and the need to better align academic programs with evolving economic requirements.

Preparatory sessions will begin on June 17 with technical meetings, followed by a high-level dialogue on June 19 addressing literacy and numeracy challenges across Southern Africa.

With nearly half of SADC’s 340 million citizens under 18 years old, the summit’s outcomes could influence human resource development for generations to come.

The decisions made in Harare will contribute to SADC’s broader 2050 development vision, which prioritises education and innovation as key drivers of regional progress.

ZIFA Unveils Grassroots Development Plan and Pushes for Tech Integration in PSL 

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi has announced comprehensive plans to develop the sport from grassroots levels while modernising Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs through technology integration.

 

Speaking to Zimbuzz Sports during the Go Warriors Fans Watch Party at Cresta Lodge on Tuesday, Magwizi revealed that ZIFA’s grassroots development strategy will be rolled out within the next three months.

The initiative aims to identify and nurture young talent across the country, ensuring a sustainable pipeline for Zimbabwe’s national teams.

Magwizi also emphasised the need for Castle Lager PSL clubs to adopt modern technologies, particularly in player performance tracking.

“We intend to make it a requirement for all PSL clubs to maintain detailed statistics for each player,” he said.

This move aligns with global football trends, where data analytics play a crucial role in player development, scouting, and tactical planning.

Listen to the interview below

@zimbuzz

ZIFA President Nqobile SaNkosi Magwizi discusses the upcoming grassroots strategy and emphasises the need for PSL teams to maintain player statistics. || Go Warriors Fans Watch party ||

♬ original sound – Zimbuzz

Taraji P. Henson Unravels in Tyler Perry’s Explosive New Drama ‘Straw’”

Tyler Perry’s new film is called Straw for a simple reason. “Straw is about a woman who reaches her tipping point,” star Taraji P. Henson tells Tudum. In other words, Janiyah (Henson) is on her last straw.

 

“Everything that can go wrong, goes wrong in this one day,” Henson continues.

“It’s about how humans operate in that heightened state of panic and anxiety and pressure. When the pot is boiling and it finally explodes, what happens? What does that look like, and how does it affect the people around you?”

In Janiyah’s case, the explosion leads her down a desperate, chaotic path that even she doesn’t seem in full control of — starting with the killing of her boss, and ending with a standoff with the police as she (almost accidentally) holds a bank hostage.

“She’s just trying to survive, trying to be a great mother to her daughter, and then the circumstances in life put her in this situation,” writer, director, and producer Perry says.

But as the situation escalates, it becomes clear that there’s an even darker story at the center of Janiyah’s pain. Read on to dive into the twists and turns of Straw — if you’re ready for the truth.

Why is Janiyah’s daughter taken away from her?

Janiyah’s day is a whirlwind of indignities. She’s on the verge of being kicked out of her apartment over unpaid rent; she’s on the outs with her boss Richard (Glynn Turman) at work; and she struggles to withdraw money from her bank account to pay for her daughter Aria’s (Gabby Jackson) lunch.

Everything culminates with a phone call from Aria’s principal — child protective services is threatening to take Aria away after bruises were discovered on her back.

Janiyah knows those bruises are from a slip in their bathtub, but she’s still too late to stop the authorities from removing Aria from her care.

It’s a crushing blow for the single mother. “For Janiyah, the thing that is keeping her alive is her daughter, because that’s her sense of belonging,” Henson says.

“That’s the one thing that makes her feel like a person, because she brought life into this world and she takes it very seriously. She doesn’t have much, but all she has, she gives to her daughter.”