Itai Mazire

Zimbabwe’s cultural and culinary diplomacy reached new heights at the British School International Day, where the country’s exhibition stand emerged as one of the event’s premier attractions.

Held in the heart of India’s capital, the event witnessed an unprecedented surge of interest in Zimbabwean gastronomy, with particular attention focused on the Madora eating certification. This interactive culinary challenge quickly became a viral sensation, sparking curiosity and excitement that resonated across the subcontinent from diplomatic circles in New Delhi to commercial hubs such as Mumbai.

The Zimbabwean delegation effectively utilised the platform to present a comprehensive narrative showcasing the country’s vast tourism and investment potential. Beyond the immediate appeal of its unique cuisine, the exhibition highlighted Zimbabwe’s breathtaking natural landscapes, world-renowned hospitality, and rich cultural heritage, positioning the nation as a top-tier destination for international travellers and investors alike.

The Madora Phenomenon: A Culinary Bridge

At the centre of the exhibition’s success was Madora, a traditional Zimbabwean delicacy made from seasoned mopane worms. The “Madora eating certification” served as a clever and engaging marketing tool, encouraging attendees to interact directly with Zimbabwean heritage through a bold gastronomic experience.

This initiative not only generated lively interactions but also acted as a catalyst for deeper cultural exchange, with many delegates expressing a newfound desire to visit Zimbabwe and experience its traditions firsthand.

Tourism officials at the event said Zimbabwe’s participation at the British School International Day demonstrated how Madora engagement became the exhibition’s primary attraction, with the certification challenge emerging as a viral highlight.

They noted that the strong tourism focus on Victoria Falls, wildlife, and heritage sites significantly increased inquiries and interest in holiday packages.

“Zimbabwe has been positioned as a unique destination for niche tourism markets. Cultural exchange and people-to-people connections were strengthened between Zimbabwean exhibitors and global delegates. Regional outreach to New Delhi and Mumbai broadened the visibility of the Zimbabwean brand within India. The strategic impact of this event extends far beyond the exhibition itself,” said a tourism official.

By capturing the spotlight at such a competitive international forum, Zimbabwe has effectively strengthened its people-to-people connections. The enthusiasm shown by Indian delegates and international representatives points to a growing appetite for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences an area in which Zimbabwe is uniquely positioned to deliver.

As the nation continues to promote its rich gastronomy and diverse tourism offerings, events like the British School International Day serve as vital milestones in Zimbabwe’s global branding strategy.

The Zimbabwean stand emerged as one of the event’s star attractions, with the popular Madora eating certification sparking curiosity, excitement, and lively interaction among attendees.

The “Madora Mania” witnessed in India is a testament to the power of cultural authenticity in international relations. As Zimbabwe builds on this momentum, the focus now shifts to translating this interest into tangible tourism growth and investment partnerships ensuring that the hearts captured in New Delhi and Mumbai lead to a lasting connection with the “House of Stone.”

The Government of Zimbabwe has announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has approved a General Amnesty for selected categories of inmates under the 2026 Presidential Clemency Order.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, Government Spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that the President had exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy,

paving the way for the release and sentence reduction of eligible prisoners.

Who Qualifies for the Amnesty

The clemency applies to the following groups of inmates:

All female prisoners who have been convicted

Juvenile offenders

Prisoners serving sentences of 48 months or less

Inmates medically certified as terminally ill

Prisoners housed in Open Prisons

All inmates aged 60 years and above

Prisoners living with disabilities

Life sentence inmates who have completed at least 20 years in custody

Sentence Reductions

Beyond those qualifying for immediate release, the clemency order also grants a 25% remission on the remaining sentence for prisoners serving terms exceeding 48 months, effectively shortening their period of incarceration.

Itai Mazire

For years, the stretch of tarmac connecting the city of Bulawayo to the heart of Matabeleland South was more than just a commute, for many, it was a test of endurance.

The Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road, a vital artery for the region’s economic and social life, had fallen into a state of severe disrepair.

Potholes the size of craters and cracked surfaces had earned it the grim reputation of being a “motorist’s nightmare.”

However, as Zimbabwe gears up to host the 2026 National Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa, this narrative is rapidly changing.

The rehabilitation of this 63-kilometre corridor is not merely a cosmetic touch-up but a comprehensive reconstruction effort under the Second Republic’s restorative development agenda.

As part of the broader Vision 2030 and the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP2), the project aims to unlock the economic potential of a region rich in agriculture and mining.

At the helm of this transformation is the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development’s Roads Department.

Engineer Jarawani Kangara, the Director of Roads, recently provided an update on the technical progress of the works. He highlighted the meticulous preparation required before the final transformation takes place.

“Surface preparation, including crack sealing and pothole patching, is currently in progress on the Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road. Following this, we will apply Asphalt Concrete (AC).”

This “surface preparation” phase is critical. Engineers are currently reclaiming the old strip road and reinforcing the foundation with three distinct base layers.

This ensures that the road can withstand the heavy traffic and environmental stressors it will face.

The final application of Asphalt Concrete (AC, specifically a 35mm asphalt overlay will provide the smooth, durable finish that has been missing for decades.

The significance of the Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road extends far beyond the convenience of travel.

It serves as a lifeline for several key economic hubs in Matabeleland South.

The acceleration of the project is tied to a historic milestone.

For the first time, Maphisa, formerly known as Antelope Mine, will host the National Independence Day celebrations in 2026.

The construction of a new stadium at the Maphisa Open Grounds is already underway to accommodate the festivities.The road rehabilitation is a central piece of the “Independence Legacy Projects” in the province.