The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has announced a Class II recall of Azithromycin 500mg USP Tablets (Batch Number 24050191), produced by Indoco Remedies Limited in India, citing concerns over product quality that could affect treatment outcomes.

The decision, which applies up to the retail level, comes after the manufacturer voluntarily reported that the batch did not meet required standards during dissolution testing carried out as part of a 24-month stability assessment.

MCAZ explained that the out-of-specification (OOS) results point to a defect that may reduce the drug’s effectiveness in treating bacterial infections. There are also concerns that inadequate therapeutic levels could contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance.

“All healthcare providers, including wholesalers, pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals, have been directed to isolate any affected stock immediately and work with the manufacturer and local distributors throughout the recall process,” the authority said.

Members of the public who may have purchased the affected tablets are encouraged to return them to the pharmacy where they were obtained. Patients who have already used the medication are advised to seek guidance from healthcare professionals.

MCAZ emphasized that it remains committed to safeguarding public health by ensuring that all medicines available in Zimbabwe meet strict standards for quality, safety, and effectiveness. The authority added that it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as needed.

Zimbabwe’s gastronomy tourism narrative took center stage Tuesday as Permanent Secretary Dr. Takaruza Munyanyiwa issued a clarion call for the institutionalisation of indigenous cuisine as a strategic driver of economic growth, social cohesion and cultural preservation, insisting that “no one and no place be left behind” in the march toward Vision 2030.

Speaking at the 2026 Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competitions hosted at Nyadire Teachers’ College in Mashonaland East Province, Dr Munyanyiwa, representing Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Hon. Barbara Rwodzi hailed the government’s resolve to devolve tourism programmes to grassroots levels.

“Tourism is a driver of culinary heritage preservation, social cohesion and sustainable economic growth,” Dr Munyanyiwa said before a crowd that included traditional leaders, professional chefs, tertiary students, community members, and persons with disabilities.

A total of 45 contestants showcased exceptional culinary artistry rooted in Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, reflecting the growing transformation of indigenous cuisine into a robust tourism product.

The event, anchored by the presence of traditional leaders, reaffirmed the deep cultural significance of gastronomy within the country’s tourism landscape.

Dr Munyanyiwa noted ongoing efforts to institutionalise Gastronomy Tourism as a key pillar of the sector, alongside the strategic guidance of the Patron of Tourism and Hospitality, Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa.

Beyond the celebration of food, the initiative positions gastronomy tourism as a strategic vehicle for entrepreneurship and destination branding, empowering communities across all provinces to transform heritage into thriving tourism enterprises.

“This is in line with His Excellency the President Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030,”Dr Munyanyiwa said, inviting the world to experience Zimbabwe’s living traditions.

Farmers in drought-prone Mudzi district have been urged to scale up traditional grain production and treat farming as a business, as the government doubles down on food security interventions under Vision 2030.

“Development starts at household level, and farmers must follow the guidance they receive from extension officers to improve productivity,” said Provincial Deputy Director Mr Makona, delivering the guest speech at a District Sorghum Field Day held last week at Mukota C, Mazonde Village in Ward 9.

P.D.D Makona said that agricultural development begins in every homestead, calling on farmers to adopt crop and livestock diversification in line with Rural Development 8.0.

He also stressed agro-ecological matching, adherence to extension advice, and participation in the grain swap initiative.

The event, hosted by Mr and Mrs Chidambaira under the theme “Promoting the Growing of Traditional Grains for Food Security Everywhere, Every Day,” showcased a one-hectare Macia seed sorghum crop estimated to yield two tonnes per hectare, a demonstration of early planting, proper fertiliser use, pest control and timely weeding.

District Agricultural Business Advisory Officer Mrs Manhamo warned that even slight planting delays can slash yields, urging farmers to keep records, rotate crops and use appropriate fertilisers.

Stakeholders including Seed Co, Zadzamatura, MASAP, Econet, Trendsetter Investments, Easieseeds and Yield Plus marketed inputs and services.

Outstanding farmers walked away with fertilisers, maize seed, a knapsack sprayer and a wheelbarrow.

Makona added that his office will follow up on wards not yet affiliated for the 2026 district show season, urging full participation. “Field days play a critical role in showcasing best practices and ensuring knowledge reaches grassroots level,” he said.