President Emmerson Mnangagwa today commissioned the second batch of refuse collection compactors and equipment at Geo-Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd, emphasising the government’s commitment to transforming waste management into an economic and environmental asset.

Speaking at the event in Harare, the President linked the project to the National Development Strategy 2 (2026–2030), particularly under the Agriculture, Food, Climate and Environment priority.

He stated that modernising waste management systems is essential for uniformity in service delivery, environmental compliance, and resource recovery.

“We are not merely unveiling new refuse collection equipment,” President Mnangagwa said.

“We are witnessing the continued growth of a project of strategic significance.”

He praised Geo-Pomona’s role in supporting Harare’s transformation into a “world-class city” through beautification and sustainable environmental programs.

Geo Pomona Waste Management Chief Executive Officer Dr Delish Nguwaya called for stricter enforcement against littering.

He urged authorities to impose penalties on those who discard waste improperly, emphasising that maintaining clean cities requires both investment in equipment and accountability from citizens.

The President also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and a “Whole of Society Approach” in achieving national development goals.

He pointed to the growing need for advanced waste sorting, recycling, and disposal methods, especially amid rapid urbanisation.

President Mnangagwa announced that awards will be given to top-performing local authorities in observance of the National Clean-Up Day, held on the first Friday of each month.

He encouraged communities to take ownership of clean-up initiatives and uphold environmental stewardship.

The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including the Vice Presidents, ministers, and the First Lady, as well as representatives from the Harare City Council and the private sector.

Concluding his address, the President declared the new fleet officially commissioned and reaffirmed the national motto: “Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo”.

Itai Mazire

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has urged tobacco farmers across the country to urgently take up crop insurance as unpredictable weather patterns, especially hailstorms, threaten to wipe out their livelihoods.

In a statement, the Ministry warned that tobacco growers are facing a significant threat to their crops from unexpected weather events, particularly hailstorms. “Such events can cause devastating damage to tobacco crops, resulting in substantial financial losses for farmers.

“In light of this risk, it is imperative for all tobacco growers to take proactive measures to protect their investment. One of the most effective ways to mitigate this risk is to insure your crop with a reliable insurer,” reads part of the statement.

The Ministry indicated that crop insurance provides farmers with a critical buffer against financial ruin.

“Crop insurance provides a vital safety net for tobacco growers, enabling them to recover from unforeseen events and minimise the financial impact of crop damage or loss,” the Ministry stated.

It added that with insurance, farmers can have peace of mind knowing their investment is protected.

The Ministry strongly encouraged growers to prioritise working with reputable insurers, saying this will help them “protect their investment from unforeseen weather events, ensure they receive support in the event of loss, and safeguard their livelihood and farm’s financial stability.”

With the rainy season underway, authorities issued a final reminder, urgently calling on farmers to invest in crop insurance. “Do not wait until it is too late. Insure your tobacco crop today and rest assured that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your investment.”

Manicaland Province has brought Dr Paul Tungwarara into the ZANU PF Central Committee, a move viewed as an important boost to the province’s leadership profile.

The appointment, confirmed during a provincial coordination committee meeting, underscores the province’s acknowledgment of Dr Tungwarara’s contributions to national development and his longstanding commitment to party programmes.

Provincial officials described his elevation as both timely and strategic, highlighting his background in business, community initiatives and economic empowerment as assets that will enhance Manicaland’s influence in national policy discussions.

In accepting the new role, Dr Tungwarara thanked the province for its trust and vowed to champion programmes that uplift communities, drive economic activity and promote unity within party structures.

Leaders noted that the co-option is part of broader efforts to strengthen party leadership with individuals dedicated to advancing Zimbabwe’s development trajectory.