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The Avenues Clinic Reopens Refurbished Wards in Ongoing Multi-Stage Renovation Drive

The Avenues Clinic has reopened newly refurbished hospital wards as part of a sweeping renovation project designed to modernise facilities and improve patient care.

 

The upgrades, now in their fourth phase, reflect the private hospital’s push to position itself as a leading centre for quality healthcare in Zimbabwe.

In an interview, Sibusisiwe Ndhlovu, General Manager of the Avenues Clinic, said the refurbishment programme is transforming key wards floor by floor.

“We are at the almost fourth stage of our renovations at Avenues Clinic. You might know that we have already done our surgical ward, which caters mostly for operation procedures. Otherwise, it’s known as One South. We have done One North, which is our medical ward on first floor. So those two floors are now done,” she explained.

The latest upgrades include the Obstetrics and Gynaecology ward, catering for new mothers and women’s health.

The ward features 15 patient rooms, including four private suites and 11 shared rooms, each accommodating two patients.

One of the private wards

Ndhlovu highlighted that the clinic has now refurbished two-thirds of its wards, with only the third floor and theatres awaiting completion.

“We have done two-thirds of the wards in this hospital. We are left with third floor and our theatres,” she said.

The Avenues Clinic is also home to one of the country’s most advanced neonatal intensive care units.

“If the baby has got any condition, we have got a world-class neonatal intensive care unit. The best in this country and it’s highly sought after. We have had 26-week babies delivered in this hospital and they live,” Ndhlovu noted.

She stressed that the renovations are not just about infrastructure but about strengthening their reputation for delivering reliable outcomes.

“We are all about good clinical outcomes. When you come to the Avenues Clinic, our wish and our expectation is that you get the best clinical outcome for your condition,” Ndhlovu said.

Ndhlovu added that private institutions like Avenues Clinic play a vital role in expanding healthcare options.

Patient room

“We continue to play our part to complement government efforts in terms of providing health. We believe that we are well placed as the Avenues Clinic to do our bit to ensure that we have a place as a country that our citizens can go to, where they are offered healing.”

Featured image: Sibusisiwe Ndhlovu, General Manager of the 
Avenues Clinic

Castle Lager Micro Braai Fest Heats Up Ahead of National Finale at Glamis Arena

The countdown to Zimbabwe’s biggest meat party is well under way as Castle Lager’s Micro Braai Fests continue to draw crowds across the country, offering fans a taste of what to expect at the 10th National Braai Festival set for October 18 at Glamis Arena.

 

The micro events, which kicked off in Mt Darwin in August, have already been staged in seven towns and are being hailed as mini simulations of the national celebration.

For loyal fans who have attended the Braai Fest over the past decade, the smaller gatherings serve both as a reminder of the festival’s appeal and as a build-up to the main event.

Last weekend, Harare hosted its edition at Jongwe Corner, drawing a huge crowd of people for a day of food, music and entertainment.

The atmosphere was filled with everything associated with the national festival, sizzling braais, cold Castle Lager, and high-energy performances, only in smaller doses.

Artists on the line-up included chart-toppers Master H and Chillmaster, alongside DJs Joe and Sawada, who kept the crowd on its feet late into the night.

Chillmaster performing at the Jongwe Corner Micro braai fest

The tour is set to continue this Saturday in Bulawayo, with Mutare closing out the provincial fiestas on October 11.

Each city stop not only fuels excitement for the Glamis Arena finale but also spreads the festival’s community spirit nationwide.

Now in its 10th year, the Castle Lager National Braai Festival has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s most anticipated social events, blending food, music and culture in celebration of friendship and togetherness.

The Micro Braai Fests mirror this experience, giving communities across the country a chance to engage with the brand and share in the tradition before the national stage lights up.

Cimas iGo Pedal to Wellness Attracts 300 Cyclists in Push for Preventive Health

More than 300 cyclists, including families and children, took part in the Cimas iGo Pedal to Wellness cycling event on Saturday morning, riding from the Cimas Health Group headquarters at Borrowdale Racecourse.

 

The event, staged ahead of World Heart Day on September 29, is part of the healthcare provider’s broader campaign to promote preventive health and wellness in Zimbabwe, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease are rising.

According to the World Health Organisation, NCDs account for more than 30% of deaths in Zimbabwe, highlighting the need for early prevention and lifestyle interventions.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Nicola Misi, Head of Cimas iGo, applauded the strong turnout and underscored the role of physical activity in preventing chronic illnesses.

“Today we hosted the annual Pedal to Wellness event, and we are happy with the turnout,” Dr. Misi said.

“We are here to promote cardiovascular health. In commemoration of World Heart Day, we are encouraging people to get active because chronic diseases are on the rise. Cycling is a fun way of keeping fit, and you can do it alone or with your family.”

She added that Cimas iGo, a wellness unit within Cimas Health Group, is dedicated to encouraging healthier living through active lifestyles, good nutrition, and preventive healthcare.

“We want people to reach out to us for guidance so that together, we can keep the ball rolling on preventive health,” she said.

Part of the young cyclists who took part in the Cimas iGo Pedal to Wellness

The event drew participants from across Harare, including amateur riders, fitness enthusiasts, and children, highlighting the community-oriented approach of Cimas’s wellness drive.

The family-friendly nature of the ride reflects the organisation’s push to make fitness more accessible and sustainable for everyday Zimbabweans.

For Cimas, which is marking 80 years of service in 2025, initiatives such as Pedal to Wellness form part of its long-term strategy to address Zimbabwe’s shifting health profile.

As more people face the burden of lifestyle-related diseases, preventive health campaigns are increasingly viewed as critical to reducing costs and improving quality of life.

Zimbabwe Thrash Uganda to Open T20 Africa Qualifiers in Style

Zimbabwe kicked off their T20 Africa Qualifiers campaign with an impressive five-wicket win over Uganda, gaining revenge after their heartbreaking defeat in Windhoek in 2023, when the Chevrons lost by five wickets and missed out on a place at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA.

 

Uganda won the toss and chose to bat first on a flat wicket under clear skies. With little movement for the seamers, the visitors started brightly, scoring at nearly 10 runs an over. Summit Verma top scored with 45, while skipper Riazat Ali added a valuable 35 off 24 balls.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers, however, dragged the game back with disciplined seam bowling.

Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans picked up three wickets apiece, while Richard Ngarava chipped in with two, restricting Uganda to 152/9 in their 20 overs.

In reply, Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a flying start thanks to Brian Bennett, who struck the ball cleanly and put the Ugandan bowlers under immediate pressure.

Tadiwanashe Marumani fell cheaply for 6 with the score on 34/1, but Bennett continued his assault before eventually departing for a blistering 72 off 44 balls.

Brendan Taylor, looking in fine touch, complemented Bennett’s aggression with a well-played 39, the pair adding a 75-run partnership that set up the chase.

The hosts comfortably crossed the finish line, reaching 157/5 in 17.3 overs, with Tony Munyonga and Tashinga Musekiwa closing out the innings.

For Uganda, only Miyaji Juma offered resistance with the ball, claiming 2/42, though he proved expensive despite his breakthroughs.

Scandal! to Bid Farewell After More Than 20 Years on e.tv

The curtain is coming down on one of South Africa’s most beloved soap operas. e.tv has announced that Scandal!, the SAFTA award-winning daily drama, will conclude its broadcast in June 2026, bringing to a close over two decades of storytelling that has captivated millions of viewers.

 

The channel said the decision was guided by shifts in the television landscape and the need to regularly review programming and scheduling. “We believe that Scandal! has reached the end of its life cycle,” e.tv said in a statement.

Since premiering in 2005, Scandal! became a staple in South African homes, setting new benchmarks in local television with gripping storylines, unforgettable characters, and performances that mirrored the complexities of everyday life.

Its impact stretched beyond entertainment, sparking conversations and reflecting social realities in powerful ways.

Ochre Moving Pictures, the production company behind the show, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to tell authentic South African stories.

Stan Joseph, Executive Producer at Ochre Moving Pictures, described the experience as “an incredible journey and a true labour of love.”

“Over twenty years, our writers, directors, actors, and crew have poured their hearts into bringing authentic South African stories to life. We are deeply grateful to e.tv for their trust and to our audiences for their unwavering support. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye, we are proud of the legacy of Scandal! leaves behind,” Joseph said.

e.tv also extended thanks to the cast, crew, and millions of loyal fans who welcomed the show into their homes. The soap will continue to air until the end of June 2026, with producers promising a memorable finale.

As one of the longest-running and most successful local soap operas in South African television history, Scandal! will bow out with a legacy of storytelling that shaped the industry and left a lasting imprint on audiences.

Shoko Festival’s Hub Unconference Puts Spotlight on African Digital Independence

Shoko Festival’s recently concluded Hub Unconference brought together experts, students, and creatives in technology, media, and journalism to tackle the theme “Decolonising the Internet.”

 

Festival founder and director Cde Fatso said this year’s discussions were central to the festival’s mission of shaping Zimbabwe’s urban culture.

“We are celebrating 15 years of growing the urban culture in Zimbabwe. What has been super interesting with the Hub Unconference is the theme this year ‘Decolonise the Internet.’ We have been talking about how can we create our own online spaces as Africans,” he said.

The Unconference featured a keynote address by media analyst Takura Zhangazha, who examined the issue of artificial intelligence and its dependence on Western-owned platforms.

His contribution resonated with attendees, sparking debate on how Africans can build their own digital systems rather than relying entirely on existing global models.

“So yesterday’s keynote speech by Takura Zhangazha about decolonising artificial intelligence was very interesting about how we are using all of these western platforms and how we need to create our own,” Cde Fatso said.

Participants also engaged in panel discussions and interactive sessions exploring content ownership, digital policy, and opportunities for collaboration in developing African-led online spaces.

Many emphasized the importance of reclaiming narratives and creating platforms that reflect the realities and identities of local communities.

The Hub Unconference has grown into one of the most influential aspects of Shoko Festival, often sparking national conversations on technology, media, and freedom of expression.

This year’s focus linked cultural celebration with a wider call for digital independence.

DJ Neptune’s Greatness IV: A Celebration of Culture, Identity, and the Global Sound of Africa

From the opening notes to the final beat, DJ Neptune’s newly released project Greatness IV carries the heartbeat of culture.

 

It reflects the daily lives, the struggles, the celebrations, and the aspirations of millions. It is deeply rooted in African identity yet crafted with a global audience in mind.

Neptune does not just present music; he presents culture, and he does so with authenticity, care, and vision.

Every track on Greatness IV reflects a different face of culture. “Jeje Laye” with Portable is raw, unfiltered street energy, a true anthem that carries the pulse of the streets of Lagos into the wider world.

“Katampe” with Rybeena captures humor, charm, and the unique storytelling tradition of African music. “Street” with Gbolar Mighty is a motivational gem rooted in the realities of everyday struggle, turning pain into power.

And “Good Mood Good Vibe” with Kikimoteleba embodies the global reach of African culture, blending French influences with African rhythms to create something universal.

What makes Neptune’s curation so remarkable is how it balances authenticity with accessibility. He doesn’t water down culture to make it palatable for outsiders.

Instead, he presents it in its truest form, trusting that authenticity is what makes it powerful. Whether it is the Yoruba-inspired spirituality of “Amin” or the unapologetic street pride of “Taliban,” Neptune ensures that listeners experience African culture as it is lived, not as it is imagined by others.

For decades, African music was sidelined, often seen as “alternative” or “niche.” Neptune has been part of the generation that changed that narrative.

By consistently producing projects that feature both street voices and global collaborations, he has shown that African music is not a category, it is a force. With Greatness IV, he continues that work, representing African identity proudly and unapologetically.

Representation here is not just about beats; it is about storytelling. Neptune provides a platform where diverse African voices can be heard. From the rising talents to established names, everyone has space.

This inclusivity reflects the culture itself, dynamic, diverse, and constantly evolving. In Greatness IV, listeners hear the voices of different regions, different experiences, and different emotions, all woven together into one tapestry.

Ultimately, Greatness IV is about legacy. Neptune understands that greatness is not measured only by awards or charts. It is measured by impact by how deeply one’s work represents and uplifts culture.

With this project, Neptune’s legacy grows not just as a DJ or producer but as a cultural ambassador. He is showing future generations that music is not just sound; it is identity, history, and future all at once.

The cultural legacy of Greatness IV will be felt in how it inspires young artists to tell their own stories authentically. It will be felt in how it shifts perceptions of African music globally.

Colourful trio of mascots unveiled for first FIFA World Cup co-hosted by three nations

In a celebration as bold and boundary-breaking as the tournament itself, FIFA have unveiled the three Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Mascots, each highlighting one of the host nations of the world’s greatest sporting event.

 

Maple™ the Moose (Canada), Zayu™ the Jaguar (Mexico) and Clutch™ the Bald Eagle (United States) have been thoughtfully developed to reflect the vibrant culture, heritage and spirit of their respective countries, coming together to symbolise unity, diversity and the shared passion for the beautiful game.

“The 26 team has just got bigger – and more fun! Maple, Zayu and Clutch are full of joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness, just like the FIFA World Cup itself,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“The three mascots are central to the incredible, entertaining atmosphere we’re creating for this game-changing tournament.

“They’ll win hearts and spark celebrations across North America and around the world. I can already picture them on children’s shirts, high-fiving football legends and – in another first for this tournament – starring in video games played by millions worldwide.”

Maple, Zayu and Clutch will be everywhere – welcoming the world, inspiring young fans and cheering on the action during the tournament, which will take place from 11 June to 19 July and feature 48 teams for the first time.

In addition, fans will be able to purchase mascot shirts and other merchandise at FIFAStore.com.

Introducing the Official FIFA World Cup 26 Mascots

Maple the Moose was born to roam, journeying across all of Canada’s provinces and territories while connecting with people and embracing the country’s rich culture.

A street style-loving artist, music enthusiast and dedicated goalkeeper, Maple found purpose through creativity, resilience and unapologetic individuality.

With a knack for making legendary saves and a heart full of strength and leadership, Maple combines endless stories and unstoppable flair.

Zayu the Jaguar, from the jungles of southern Mexico, embodies the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of the country.

With a name inspired by unity, strength and joy, Zayu transforms on the pitch as a striker, showcasing exceptional ingenuity and agility that intimidates defenders.

Off the pitch, Zayu embraces Mexican culture through dance, food and tradition, uniting people across borders with passion.

More than an athlete, Zayu is a symbol of cultural celebration and connection, carrying the heart of Mexico with pride.

Clutch the Bald Eagle possesses an unquenchable thirst for adventure, soaring across the United States and embracing every culture, game and moment with boundless curiosity and optimism.

Fearless on the pitch and uplifting off it, Clutch leads by action — rallying teammates, lifting spirits and turning every challenge into an opportunity to rise higher.

A social spark and sports fanatic, Clutch, like all great midfielders, unites people wherever they go, proving that true flight is about purpose, passion and play.

Review: Grace Choir Breathes New Life Into “Ndinoshamiswa Kwazvo”

Few hymns hold as much weight in Zimbabwe’s Christian tradition as “Ndinoshamiswa Kwazvo.”

 

For decades, it has carried worshippers through moments of praise, reflection and hope.

Grace Choir’s newly released rendition, performed and recorded at the Grace Centre, shows how a familiar song can be reimagined without losing its timeless essence.

Led by the rich, commanding voice of Elizabeth Chingaona, the choir’s version strikes a balance between reverence and renewal.

Chingaona’s delivery is both powerful and tender, drawing listeners into the depth of the hymn’s message.

Her voice anchors the performance, allowing the choir’s harmonies to rise around her in a way that feels both grounded and uplifting.

What makes this interpretation stand out is its arrangement. The choir embraces traditional choral layering while weaving in subtle modern flourishes that give the hymn fresh energy.

Rather than altering the song beyond recognition, Grace Choir highlights its enduring power, reminding audiences why it has resonated across generations.

This sensitivity to the hymn’s original spirit while adding a creative touch is what makes their rendition memorable.

Beyond the music itself, the recording underscores the importance of preserving hymns that form part of Zimbabwe’s spiritual and cultural fabric.

Songs like “Ndinoshamiswa Kwazvo” are living testimonies that connect the past to the present.

By revisiting and recording these works, groups like Grace Choir ensure they remain alive for future generations of worshippers.

Watch and Listen to Grace Choir’s Ndinoshamiswa Kwazvo

Kwasaa Launches as Zimbabwe’s New Homegrown E-Hailing Solution

Zimbabwe’s fast-growing e-hailing sector has a new contender, with Kwasaa positioning itself as a homegrown solution built to meet the unique demands of local commuters.

 

Kwasaa is a Bantu word that carries different meanings across languages. In Shona, it means “hustle” or “movement,” while in Swahili it translates to “on time.”

It has entered an industry currently dominated by international giants such as InDrive and Bolt, who hold the majority of the local market share.

Kwasaa is more than an e-hailing service. The app also offers car hire, where users can book a chauffeur driven vehicle for a minimum of six hours. Plans are underway to expand this service to allow clients to drive the hired vehicles themselves.

The car hire service comes in two categories: Kwasaa Base and Kwasaa Lux Rental. The latter includes bigger vehicles such as twin cabs and vans.

Zimbuzz caught up with Regional Director, Mr. Winston, who said:

“We have launched, and the Kwasaa application is now available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Both riders and drivers can sign up, especially those in Bulawayo and Harare where we are live.

The beauty of Kwasaa is that we offer a seamless, safe, and affordable travel experience when you book with us. We also bring convenience with multiple payment options, including EcoCash, cash, and debit/credit cards. What sets us apart is that we are not just a ride-hailing service, we are a mobility solution built for Zimbabwean realities.”

For drivers, Kwasaa promises to be driver centric, prioritizing their welfare by offering better rates, more earnings, and rewards.

As part of the launch, the first drivers to sign up will not pay any commission on rides until 31 January 2026.

For customer care, contact: info@kwasaa.com

Kwasaa is poised to shake up Zimbabwe’s e-hailing and car hire sector.