President Emmerson Mnangagwa praised his wife, Auxillia, for her “willingness to learn” after she graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Midlands State University (MSU) on Thursday, November 21.
The First Lady had already received an honorary PhD from GD Goenka University in India in May 2022 and began using the title “Dr”.
She was one of 6,479 students who graduated from MSU.
Mnangagwa, who serves as Chancellor for all State Universities, spoke at the ceremony, commending his wife’s academic dedication. He said (via <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/after-4-honorary-phds-msu-says-auxillia-mnangagwa-worked-her-fifth/">ZimLive</a>):
<blockquote>
I’m overjoyed because when we got married, she only had her Ordinary Level passes. She expressed her willingness to learn and I encouraged her because at that time I already had my law degrees.
I helped her through Advanced Level, before she took her first degree. She never stopped until she attained a PhD, which I do not even have because I only ended at Masters Level.
I’m so happy that she has reached the top and actually, she deserves it because at home she is always reading in the library.
</blockquote>
MSU Vice Chancellor, Professor Victor Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa, praised the 61-year-old First Lady, describing her as an “exemplary student.” He said:
<blockquote>
She showed humility from the proposal presentation to the oral defence of her thesis. She was an exemplary student. We recognise her exceptional work ethic, resilience and dedication to her studies.
Above all, she humbled herself to her supervisors and her intellectual curiosity has been instructive to all of us. I salute all our graduates and salute the sacrifices they made.
</blockquote>
Auxillia has earned several honorary doctorates. In addition to the one from India, she received three more: from the Russian State University for the Humanities in March 2023, the Zimbabwe Open University in December 2022, and the University of Zimbabwe in September 2023.
The last was awarded in recognition of her philanthropic work through the Angel of Hope Foundation, which she founded.
A former intelligence officer, Auxillia earned her first degree in Hotel and Tourism Administration in 2001 from a university in Switzerland.
This focus on honorary titles is similar to that of Zimbabwe’s former First Lady, Grace Mugabe, who sought to be called “Dr.”
Her controversial PhD from the University of Zimbabwe in 2014 was awarded just two months after she started the programme, and she received the degree from her husband, the late President Robert Mugabe.
Critics argue that some Zimbabweans are overly focused on being called “Dr.” as it creates an impression of education, intelligence, and competence, even if the title is honorary or undeserved.
This has led to the rise of unaccredited institutions awarding questionable honorary doctorates indiscriminately, much like throwing confetti at a birthday party.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The article talks about how Zimbabwe's First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, earned a real PhD degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Midlands State University. Her husband, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, praised her for working hard and always wanting to learn. She also received honorary PhDs from other universities. Some people, like the former First Lady Grace Mugabe, also want to be called "Dr." even if their titles are not truly earned. Critics think that too many people in Zimbabwe care about having a "Dr." title, even if it's not real.

First Lady's Doctorate A Testament To Her “Willingness To Learn”, Says Mnangagwa

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa joined thousands of students receiving degrees at Midlands State University (MSU) in Gweru on Thursday, November 21.
According to ZBC News, graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management. The title of the thesis is: “The Efficiency of Hotels in Zimbabwe: Data Envelopment Analysis Approach.”
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gc5zKAjWMAAWKMr?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who serves as the Chancellor of all state universities, presided over MSU’s 25th graduation ceremony in Gweru, where a total of 6,000 students were conferred with degrees.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gc5zKAmWkAA4TPl?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
Founded in 1999, MSU has experienced growth, driven by its vision, mission, core values, and motto.
The university now has a student population exceeding 23,000, supported by more than 2,000 staff members.
Since its inception, MSU has produced over 71,204 graduates.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa got a new degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management. She got it from Midlands State University. The university also had a big graduation ceremony where 6,000 students got degrees. The President of Zimbabwe was there too. The university has grown a lot since it started in 1999. Now, there are over 23,000 students and 2,000 staff. Many people have graduated from there too. It's a big deal for the First Lady to get a new degree, and it shows she worked hard.

Auxillia Mnangagwa Graduates With PhD In Tourism And Hospitality Management

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife, Auxillia Mnangagwa, is leading a large delegation of female business executives and a dance group to Belarus.
During the visit, she held a meeting with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk.
According to the Belarusian state-owned publication <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-meets-with-auxillia-mnangagwa-pledges-to-honor-all-agreements-with-zimbabwe-159673-2024/">BelTA</a>, during the meeting,  Lukashenko expressed his determination to implement all agreements reached between Belarus and Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
I am very glad that you have come to us when we are celebrating Slavic culture [the international arts festival Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk] and have brought a small piece of Zimbabwean culture with you.
You know very well our attitude to you, your country and your president. We are ready to offer all kinds of support and services during your stay in Belarus and later on.
</blockquote>
Referring to Mnangagwa as his “old friend”, Lukashenko added that he is looking forward to the Zimbabwean leader’s expected visit to Belarus. He said:
<blockquote>
You know that we are looking forward to the visit of the president of Zimbabwe to Belarus. We will provide him with all possible assistance in his mission. We will try our best to bring all our ideas and plans to fruition.
You are well familiar with Belarus. I know that you are accompanied by representatives of the business community of Zimbabwe.
It’s good that these are women. They have a sharper eye. They will take notice of all the best things that Belarus has, including the things that we are ready to jointly implement in Zimbabwe and elsewhere.
Please convey to Emmerson [President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa], my old friend, our best wishes and tell him about our determination to implement our agreements…
We really want to work in your country and do something useful for the people of Zimbabwe. You can count on us.
</blockquote>
According to ZimLive, the First Lady is travelling to Belarus in a Turkey-registered Gulfstream 550 private jet with the registration code TC-ALG. This type of private jet is reported to cost around $11,000 per hour.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa, the wife of Zimbabwe's President, went to Belarus with a group of women in business and dancers. She met with the President of Belarus, who promised to help Zimbabwe with agreements. The President of Belarus said he is excited for Zimbabwe's President to visit. He wants to work with Zimbabwe and help improve the country. Auxillia Mnangagwa flew to Belarus in an expensive private jet. It cost $11,000 per hour. The visit is seen as a way to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Auxillia Mnangagwa Meets With Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi has denied reports that First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa is cashing in on the national fabric, which is being sold for US$4.00 per metre.
On Wednesday, 19 June, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028485/auxillia-cashes-in-on-national-dress">NewsDay</a> reported that the national fabric, now almost compulsory for civil servants and ZANU PF supporters, was being sold at the First Lady’s offices despite the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) being the principal retailer of the fabric.
In a statement issued today, Rwodzi confirmed that the fabric is being sold at a “nominal fee” of US$4.00 per metre, saying the price came down from US$12.00.
She also said claims that Mnangagwa was pocketing the proceeds “are not only unfortunate but appear calculated to soil the good image of our hard-working mother of the nation who is our patron.” Said Rwodzi:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry wishes to remind all concerned that it is the sole custodian of the Zimbabwe National Fabric and is responsible for distributing the fabric through its Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Provincial offices at a gazetted nominal fee of USD 4 per metre.
The Ministry works with a few selected outlets which distribute the fabric at the gazetted price.
The National Fabric was previously sold between USD9 and USD12 before the ministry intervened to get the price gazetted downwards to USD4.
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry encourages the nation to continue taking pride in our identity, our culture and our Heritage through our National Fabric.
We take exception to false and malicious claims by some media outlets that the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa is cashing in on the national fabric.
Such claims are not only unfortunate but appear calculated to soil the good image of our hard-working mother of the nation who is our patron.
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry is forever grateful to Dr Mnangagwa for initiating the launch of the national fabric which promotes our Zimbabwean identity.
</blockquote>
Posting on X, Mrehwa, a concerned citizen, said the government should release the fabric onto the market and allow retailers to sell it to the public. Said Mrehwa:
<blockquote>
Why Gazette the price of the fabric and give sole mandate to the ministry? These are the actions that ferment speculation. Why not release it to the market and let those in business sell it like any other goods? If l can buy a flag anywhere why not this fabric? Food for thought.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rwodzi Refutes Claims Of Auxillia Mnangagwa Profiting From National Dress Initiative

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa is reportedly cashing in on the sale of the national fabric, with the national dress becoming a common feature at State and ZANU PF functions.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028485/auxillia-cashes-in-on-national-dress">NewsDay</a>, the national fabric is being sold at the First Lady’s offices, while ZANU PF and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) as the principal retailers of the fabric.
Mnangagwa’s successor as Chirumanzu-Zibagwe MP, Barbara Rwodzi, who is also the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, has been at the forefront of promoting the national dress.
The cloth is reportedly fetching US$4 a metre at the ZTA offices in Harare, while an average cloth sells for US$1.50 in retail shops.
A prospective buyer who chose to remain anonymous told NewsDay that the whole national dress thing seems to be a money-making scheme given that the cloth is being sold at exorbitant prices. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Why should we be forced to spend US$4 per metre on a piece of fabric when we can get similar material for much less?
This feels more like a money-making scheme than a genuine effort to promote national pride.
</blockquote>
When contacted for a comment, Rwodzi said she was busy “preparing to go to Nyanga” and referred questions to her assistant.
The personal assistant, identified only as Kudzai, however, refused to entertain questions.
Despite the reports, ZANU PF director of information, Farai Marapira, asserted that the national fabric was selling exceptionally well. He said:
<blockquote>
There has been a very serious uptake of the national dress. We are seeing a lot of excitement in things to do with our nation. We are inundated with people who are looking for that dress since it’s the topic at hand.
The House of Cheneso does orders with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and within a week, it will be sold out. That is how serious the uptake of the national dress is.
This is not a partisan dress. It is a dress for everyone. It’s about our national identity. It is not for ZANU PF people but for every Zimbabwean.
What we only do as ZANU PF is we just take orders through our commercial House of Cheneso so that it is easier for our party members to access it. It’s just us as ZANU PF supporting a national initiative.
</blockquote>
Marapira expressed uncertainty regarding the recipient of the proceeds from fabric sales. He said:
<blockquote>
I am not privy to what they do with the proceeds. I am not sure if they are working on a zero-profit basis. The Ministry of Tourism will be the best to answer that question.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa launched the national fabric in April 2020 in Harare after promoting it using ZANU PF structures.
Meanwhile, NewsDay reported that they could not independently verify if the proceeds are exclusively going into the First Lady’s pockets.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, Cashes In On National Dress

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa hosted a dinner for Sengezo Tshabangu and Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MPs loyal to him, with guests treated to a sumptuous meal and expensive whiskies.
<a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/news/article/200027661/auxillia-fetes-sengezo-tshabangu-at-state-house">The Standard</a> reported sources as saying Vice President Constantino Chiwenga was “ambushed” and made the guest of honour at the dinner where ZANU PF and CCC MPs pledged loyalty to the Mnangagwas.
The parliamentarians reportedly agreed to make Auxillia their ambassador and ensure that she takes an official position in Parliament.
A source, who attended the dinner was cited as saying the dinner is part of a campaign to solidify President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his rule beyond 2028. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The plan now is to simultaneously extend the term of the current Parliament and that of the president to 2030.
Alternatively, the other plan is to de-harmonise the elections with the next presidential election scheduled for 2030. It’s all a work in progress.
The MPs also agreed to support Auxillia becoming the women’s ambassador, and not only that but to become the leader of the women’s caucus in Parliament.
Chiwenga was put in an invidious position because he harbours presidential ambitions, and he was left livid as he was ambushed since he was the guest of honour to support Mnangagwa’s 2030 bid and that of Auxillia as women’s ambassador.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu confirmed the Friday dinner at State House hosted by Auxillia for CCC and ZANU PF MPs. He told The Standard:
<blockquote>
It was a dinner for female legislators for both parties, and of course, as leaders of the respective parties we had to attend as well.
We were not chanting slogans. Of course, not all MPs attended the dinner because of various commitments, but it was a dinner to host female legislators from both parties.
Female legislators indeed agreed to make the First Lady their ambassador to champion the women’s cause.
There is really nothing sinister about that, but we are simply copying what Malawi is doing where their first lady is a women’s ambassador.
Going forward, the First Lady would assume a parliamentary position to champion women’s cause as their leader.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF chief whip Pupurai Togarepi also confirmed the dinner and its outcomes. He said:
<blockquote>
The women’s caucus, women parliamentarians across the political divide had dinner with the first lady following the request to meet with her.
The honourable women parliamentarians requested the first lady to be the ambassador on issues of interest to women and women parliamentarians in particular.
This is a common trend in many countries that women parliamentarians request their first ladies to be their ambassadors.
Members just wanted to appreciate what the First Lady is doing to advance the interest of women in healthcare, culture, and empowerment.
In their message to the first lady, women parliamentarians said she was better placed to raise their issues with the government and with the various international organisations she works with.
</blockquote>
Tshabangu took control of CCC in October 2023 with the assistance of state institutions.
He subsequently recalled CCC Members of Parliament and councillors aligned with Chamisa, effectively aiding ZANU PF in securing a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly.
Later, Tshabangu appointed himself as a Senator and assumed the role of Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, once again in collaboration with the State.
He is now set to receive more than US$1 million from the State under the Political Parties Finance Act.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Hosts Lavish Dinner For Tshabangu At State House

First lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s alleged overbearing attitude is causing widespread discontent in government circles, with some workers now finding it difficult to work with her, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/article/erratic-auxillia-mnangagwa-fuels-discontent-in-government-sources-say/">ZimLive</a>.
Many state actors including cabinet ministers and security details are now reluctant to do official business with her, ZimLive reported sourcses as saying.
Senior government officials who spoke to the publication alleged that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife is “extremely abusive and bad-tempered most of the time”.
They also accused the first lady of “misusing” state resources through overseas and nationwide trips promoting her charity.
A senior government official who spoke to ZimLive on condition they were not named was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Some of the people who have been at the receiving end of her abuse have even accused her of physical violence and using inappropriate language towards police officers, her aides and even high-ranking government officials.
Regrettably, her behaviour is far worse than that of former first lady Grace Mugabe in the twilight of her late husband’s reign.
It’s unsettling that history seems to be repeating itself, which completely runs contrary to President Mnangagwa’s way of doing things.
</blockquote>
A second official, who said he had witnessed the first lady’s erratic behaviour at close hand, said:
<blockquote>
She is exhibiting a troubling insensitivity and complete disregard for the dignity and rights of others.
When those in positions of authority act with impunity and total disregard for the rule of law, the foundations of democracy and justice are threatened.
It is particularly important that those in influential positions like the first lady uphold the values of respect, dignity and ethical conduct.
</blockquote>
The people aid President Mnangagwa should institute an internal enquiry through his spy network to get a grip on the matter and “rein her in.”
Mnangagwa (61) is also accused of meddling in the running of government ministries, including calling ministers and shouting at them.
In 2019, the first lady was reportedly forced to apologise to military chiefs after an eight-minute call recording of her shouting at 1 Presidential Guard Infantry Battalion commander Colonel Samson Murombo leaked.
Last month, nine women were arrested for booing Mnangagwa during her address at Watsomba Business Centre in Manicaland Province after they had failed to get some freebies.
Presidential spokesperson George Charamba later said the charges against the nine women were withdrawn after both Mnangagwa and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner General Godwin Tandabantu Matanga agreed that the police officers on the ground overreacted.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa's Alleged Overbearing Attitude Sparks Discontent In Government Circles

The State has reportedly withdrawn all charges against nine women from Watsomba who were arrested allegedly for booing First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.
The women were detained at Mutare Central Police Station, before being charged with disorderly conduct in a public place as defined in section 41(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
The accused persons were named by human rights lawyers as Nester Chatiwana aged 41 years, Panashe Machekanzondo aged 19 years, Winnet Sithole aged 19 years, Maria Choto aged 49 years, Esnath Choto aged 33 years, Ellen Rujuwa aged 28 years, Faith Chidhakwa aged 30 years, Patience Matasva aged 35 years and Joyce Mashingaidza aged 29 years.
Presidential spokesperson George Charamba said the charges against the nine women were withdrawn on Sunday after both Mnangagwa and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner General Godwin Tandabantu Matanga agreed that the police officers on the ground overreacted. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Both the First Lady and Police Commissioner General agreed the officers on the ground overreacted. On the instructions of the First Lady, all charges were withdrawn yesterday.
</blockquote>
It was alleged that the women booed Mnangagwa during her address at Watsomba Business Centre in Manicaland Province after they had failed to get some freebies, which the First Lady was handing out as part of her charitable work.
The women were set to return to court on 30 April 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

State Withdraws Charges Against Nine Women Who "Booed" Auxillia Mnangagwa

Nine women were arrested for allegedly booing First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa during her address at Watsomba Business Centre in Manicaland province on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.
The women had reportedly failed to get some freebies, which Mnangagwa was handing out as part of her charitable work.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) identified the nine women as Nester Chatiwana aged 41 years, Panashe Machekanzondo aged 19 years, Winnet Sithole aged 19 years, Maria Choto aged 49 years, Esnath Choto aged 33 years, Ellen Rujuwa aged 28 years, Faith Chidhakwa aged 30 years, Patience Matasva aged 35 years and Joyce Mashingaidza aged 29 years.
They were arrested by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers on 10 April at Watsomba Business Centre and detained at Mutare Central Police Station, before being charged with disorderly conduct in a public place as defined in section 41(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
It was the State’s case that the women seated on the ground stood up and started booing the First Lady while she was making her closing remarks during her address intending to disrupt her speech and show disgruntlement that they had not received anything from her.
Prosecutors alleged that the behaviour allegedly exhibited by Chatiwana, Machekanzondo, Sithole, Choto, Choto, Rujuwa, Chidhakwa, Matasva and Mashingaidza, prosecutors said, was unlawful, abusive and insulting to Mnangagwa.
The nine women were released on Friday 12 April 2024 on free bail by Mutare Magistrate Prisca Manhibi following the intervention of ZLHR’s Tatenda Sigauke and David Tandiri.
They will return to court on 30 April 2024.
In their defence, Chatiwana, Machekanzondo, Sithole, Choto, Choto, Rujuwa, Chidhakwa, Matasva and Mashingaidza, who deny the charges, argued that they were just targeted during a dragnet arrest after they opted to leave the venue early and when Mnangagwa was still addressing people and before being dismissed.
The alleged booing of Auxillia Mnangagwa echoes an incident from November 2017 when ZANU PF youths reportedly heckled former First Lady Grace Mugabe at White City Stadium in Bulawayo.
The ZANU PF youths were then prosecuted for insulting and undermining the late former president Robert Mugabe’s wife.
The heckling of Grace Mugabe angered her husband, who fingered President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who at the time served as his Vice President, for instigating the jeering of his wife.
The ZANU PF political party youths, whom ZLHR represented, were later set free after prosecutors withdrew charges of insulting or undermining the former First Lady.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nine Women Arrested For Booing Auxillia Mnangagwa

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa was unable to attend a United Nations conference on women’s rights this week due to “visa complications.”
The 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women commenced on March 11 in New York and will conclude on March 22.
<a href="https://www.zimlive.com/auxillia-mnangagwa-misses-un-womens-conference-over-visa-complications/">ZimLive</a> reported that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife was scheduled to speak at a side event on March 18.
However, Leya Travis-Mnangagwa, President Mnangagwa’s daughter-in-law and married to Emmerson Junior, delivered the speech in her place.
Leya holds a directorship at the Angel of Hope Foundation, led by the first lady.
ZimLive cited diplomatic sources as saying that Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade submitted visa applications late for Zimbabwean delegates, including the first lady and female provincial ministers.
However, Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, her permanent secretary Mavis Sibanda and Senate President Mabel Chinomona travelled.
Earlier this month, the United States imposed an asset freeze and travel ban on President Mnangagwa and his wife under the Global Magnitsky Programme, citing corruption and human rights abuses.
However, foreign leaders and their spouses subject to US sanctions are typically permitted to travel to the United Nations headquarters in New York, recognized as international territory, albeit with potential restrictions and monitoring.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Misses UN Women’s Conference Due To "Visa Complications"

The European Union’s ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, has purchased a house in a prestigious Harare neighbourhood just one year into his four-year term, a move considered highly unusual by diplomats. Kirchmann, a German diplomat, bought the property in Highlands and immediately began extensive renovations.
While there is no suggestion of illegality, diplomats expressed concern about potential conflicts of interest and susceptibility to manipulation by the Zimbabwean government. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reportedly played a role in facilitating the purchase and securing necessary permissions. Kirchmann has reportedly formed close relationships with some members of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime. An anonymous source told ZimLive:
<blockquote>
He calls some ministers ‘my brother’ and his wife Maria has found a friend in first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa.
</blockquote>
<img alt="Jobst von Kirchmann house Highlands Harare 1" class="alignnone wp-image-265831 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="472" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1-300x300.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1-60x60.jpg 60w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1-90x90.jpg 90w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-1.jpg 768w" width="472"/>
The purchase has raised eyebrows among diplomats, as it is uncommon for an ambassador to acquire property before completing their term. Said a Western diplomat:
<blockquote>
It may not be expressly prohibited by the Geneva Convention, but it raises potential conflict of interest. It makes him potentially susceptible to manipulation by the regime.
If for instance the government implements currency measures that encourage arbitrage but benefit property holders like him, will he speak out?
</blockquote>
If Kirchmann and his wife decide to remain in Zimbabwe after his posting, they would need to switch to other permits, as diplomatic service does not count towards permanent residency qualification.
<img alt="Jobst von Kirchmann house Highlands Harare 2" class="wp-image-265832 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="532" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 532px) 100vw, 532px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2-300x300.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2-60x60.jpg 60w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2-90x90.jpg 90w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jobst-von-Kirchmann-house-Highlands-Harare-2.jpg 768w" width="532"/>
Jobst von Kirchmann has a son who attends a prestigious school in Harare that has a long waiting list for admission.
The spokesperson for the EU mission declined to comment on the ambassador’s personal matters. Kirchmann has a background in law, having trained in Germany and France, and has worked as a lawyer, prosecutor, and judge before joining the European Union institutions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

EU Ambassador To Zimbabwe Purchases A House In Harare

Five Form 2 students from Chrome High School in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Shurugwi/">Shurugwi</a> have been granted bail until Monday after being accused of stealing 16 laptops donated to Selukwe Primary School by the First Lady, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Auxilia_Mnangagwa/">Auxilia Mnangagwa</a>. They are also alleged to have broken into a school tuck shop and taken various items. The stolen goods and laptops are estimated to be worth US$8,000, with around US$5,000 worth of property recovered.
The accused appeared before Shurugwi Magistrate Sithabile Zungula. Their identities have not been disclosed due to their ages.
<h3>What Transpired:</h3>
The prosecution, represented by Tafadzwa Guzete, presented the case alleging the accused students collaborated and planned to steal from Selukwe Primary School on August 16, 2023.
They gained entry to the school’s tuck shop using unknown objects and stole groceries such as biscuits, snacks, soft drinks, toffee bars, Maheu bottles, sweets, and juice.
They also took basketballs, volleyballs, tennis balls, hockey balls, soccer balls, hockey sticks, and netballs. Later, they allegedly entered the school laboratory through the ceiling and stole 16 laptops.
The matter came to light on September 19, 2023, when one of the accused’s guardians found laptop components in his possession. After questioning, the son admitted to the theft, leading to the involvement of the police, who arrested all the suspects.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Students Steal Laptops Donated By First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa

The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has awarded First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa a Doctor of Philosophy in Law Honorary Degree in recognition of her philanthropic work with the Angel of Hope Foundation which she founded.
Mnangagwa (60), was capped by her husband, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the University of Zimbabwe Chancellor.
In his citation, UZ dean in the Faculty of Arts, Professor Fainos Mangena said the First Lady is well-known for her advocacy work on the conservation of culture and denouncing child abuse and early marriages, among other societal ills. He said:
<blockquote>
In her, the concept of servant-leadership, Your Excellency and Chancellor, is personified. Indeed, her character, personality, humility and high level of intrinsic motivation have been game-changers in shaping both public service and servant leadership.
Her philanthropic work in its diversity finds expression in her Angel of Hope Foundation whose objectives are anchored on her desire to change the lives of everyone.
She has developed an innovative philanthropic model that has received national, regional and international acclaim.
What is unique in her model, Your Excellency and Chancellor, is that it is bent at best providing a refreshing approach to social engineering that undergraduates sustainable development.
Your Excellency and Chancellor, the person the university is presenting to you to confer with a Doctor of Laws Degree Honoris Causa is none other than the First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Her Excellency Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa.
</blockquote>
In her acceptance speech, Mnangagwa thanked the Chancellor, the Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Paul Mapfumo and the entire university community for the honour. She said:
<blockquote>
Your Excellency and Chancellor, I would like to firstly take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to you not only as the chancellor of the University of Zimbabwe but also as His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Thank you very much for recognising the contribution of my efforts and innovative philanthropic models in the fulfilment of international, regional, national development priority areas and key variables of Education 5.0 philosophy.
I would also like to thank the chairman of the University of Zimbabwe Council Mr Douglas Hoto, the Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Paul Mapfumo and the entire university community for extending this honour to me.
This is quite humbling. I am indeed overwhelmed by this gesture which I never dreamt of. As I humbly receive this honour I would like to acknowledge and appreciate the support which I received from you as the chancellor of the University of Zimbabwe.
You afforded me time and support for the fulfillment of my philanthropic models which are anchored on supporting and changing the lives of the marginalised and vulnerable members of society regardless of age, sex, marital status, level of education, religion, place of residence, occupation and race.
I also extend my gratitude to the hardworking and goal-oriented staff members of the Angel of Hope Foundation without whom this achievement could not have been realised.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa has to date received five PhDs from various universities, both local and foreign, as shown below:
<ul>
<li>Doctor of Philosophy Degree (G D Goenka University of India)</li>
<li>Doctor of Philosophy Honorary Degree (Russia State University for the Humanities)</li>
<li>Honorary Doctorate Degree (Zimbabwe Open University)</li>
<li>Honorary Doctorate (Belarusian State Medical University)</li>
<li>Doctor of Philosophy in Law Honorary Degree</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

University of Zimbabwe Awards Auxillia Mnangagwa Honorary Doctorate

Two soldiers and a District Development Fund (DDF) driver have been sentenced to 15 months in prison by Concession magistrate Mr Joshua Nembaware for stealing building materials from First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s farm.
Tazvitya Kutuka (38) and Perioge Chikuya (46), the soldiers, and their accomplice, Tolucky Kambakuku (43), will spend six months in prison after the sentence was conditionally suspended.
Nembaware stated that the convicts betrayed the trust placed in them by the First Lady and showed no respect for her by stealing her property. The prosecutor stated that the soldiers were deployed at the First Farm in Glendale to supervise the construction of a warehouse and conspired with Kambakuku to steal building materials.
The police arrested Kambakuku, who was caught keeping the stolen property, and he implicated the two soldiers. All the stolen property valued at US$3,238.50 was recovered.
It is not the first instance where robbers have targeted an elite first family in Zimbabwe. In 2019, the state-owned Herald newspaper reported that almost $1m (£914,000) in cash was stolen from a briefcase that belonged to <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Zimbabwe</a>‘s former President, <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Robert Mugabe</a>.
Recently, three individuals were brought to court, charged with stealing a suitcase that contained $150,000. However, as per “updated <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">court documents</a>” reviewed by the Herald, Mr. Mugabe claimed to have lost a considerably larger sum of money.
<div> </div>
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

2 Soldiers Jailed 15 Months For Stealing First Lady's Building Material

Zimbabwe’s Ambassador at Large and Presidential Envoy to Europe and the Americas, Uebert Angel, asked First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa for her help to launder US$1.2 billion.
This came out in the fourth installment of the Gold Mafia investigative documentary by Al Jazeera titled “Have The King With You” that was premiered on Friday, 14 April 2023.
In the episode, Angel allegedly called Mrs. Mnangagwa, whom he called “mum” and asked for help to launder US$1.2 billion.
The Qatari-based broadcaster said it independently verified that the person at the other end of the call was Auxillia Mnangagwa.
Speaking from the United Kingdom where he was meeting with Al Jazeera undercover reporters, who were pretending to be Chinese criminals looking to launder undeclared wealth, Angel asked Auxillia:
<blockquote>
Remember those people that want to move cash. They would want to know, are we providing the planes or [are] they providing the planes?
</blockquote>
Auxillia, rather curtly, responded to Angel: “How would I know?”
She said Angel should ask “father” in an apparent reference to President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He replied:
<blockquote>
I will see him at six, right, and see how I best present this to him.
I will present it to him, then. Then he will discuss which planes he uses, his [Mnangagwa’s] or their own.
</blockquote>
When Angel asked Auxillia if it was achievable to “move the cash,” she said, “That’s right.”
After hanging up the call, Angel told the Al Jazeera undercover reporters:
<blockquote>
You have got the President, you have got his family involved.
</blockquote>
The Gold Mafia documentary is a four-part investigation by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit).
It exposed an alleged series of gold smuggling gangs in Southern Africa that help criminals launder hundreds of millions of dollars.
The gang members get rich while plundering their nations.
They use gold to turn dirty cash into clean, seemingly legitimate money for those with large amounts of unaccounted wealth.
The criminals do so by using a complex web of companies, counterfeit identities and fake documents.
Angel was one of the key figures in the documentary where he offered to launder cash into the country using his diplomatic status.
During his encounters with the undercover reporters, Angel was secretly recorded boasting about his close relations with Mnangagwa and how much power he wields as a result.
Angel’s assets were recently frozen by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit.
Reports suggest Angel is likely to face money laundering charges and allegations of name-dropping.
A 2020 report by the International Crisis Group (ICG) said gold worth US$1.5 billion was smuggled out of Zimbabwe every year by syndicates linked to political elites.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: Uebert Angel Asked Auxillia Mnangagwa For Help To Launder US$1.2 Billion

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba has defended First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa for conducting State business on her trip to Belarus despite not having a government position.
Mnangagwa’s trip to Belarus has been under public scrutiny after it emerged that she met with President Aleksandr Lukashenko to discuss government business.
Pictures of the First Lady and her sons in the company of controversial businessman, Aleksander Zingman, meeting Belarusian Foreign Affairs minister Sergei Aleinik were posted on the Information Ministry’s social media pages last Friday.
CCC member Joanah Mamombe said Mrs. Mnangagwa and her two sons, Collins and Sean are not government officials and therefore, have no right to conduct government business with foreigners.
She went as far as saying Zimbabwe’s future is being mortgaged in plain sight to benefit a few elites.
In a post on Twitter using one of his accounts, Tinoedza Zvimwe, Charamba mocked CCC, saying Mnangagwa was supporting her husband and reinforcing her country’s engagement and re-engagement efforts. <a href="https://twitter.com/Tinoedzazvimwe1/status/1646156296616398851">He said</a>:
<blockquote>
Chinzwaika maYero: (listen, CCC members) Mai Mnangagwa, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, does not need your say-so to fundraise for humanitarian ends, to serve her country and the underprivileged in her country, to support her husband and to reinforce her country’s engagement and re-engagement thrust.
Zimbabwe will mobilise all her resources, including her soft power to ensure she achieves her goals, including checkmating the negativity generated by the Yellow opposition.
No compliments are expected from that oppositional quarter, moreso when the First Lady quietly opposes and undermines your anti-Nation campaign. None whatsoever!
Zvese nechipepa chenyu (including your newspaper) [in an apparent reference to NewsDay] which is so out of touch with reality to the point of quoting an information officer who has long retired from Government employment!
Ko kana ndiri we party ya Daniel Chingoma. Mayero kudiiko.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Charamba Defends Auxillia Mnangagwa's Meetings With Belarusian Govt Officials

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa has invited a Belarusian company that produces baby food, to consider expanding its operations to Zimbabwe.
Mnangagwa, who has been leading a delegation to Belarus that consists of her twin sons, Collins and Sean, visited the company, Bellakt.
Her visit to Belarus follows a similar visit by the country’s president Alexander Lukashenko to Harare in February.
Speaking in an interview with Belarus State-owned paper, BelTA, Mnangagwa said the expansion of Bellakt’s operations to Zimbabwe will also help other countries in the Southern African region. She said:
<blockquote>
I am very glad I have visited the company. We learned that the company produces baby food for children from 0 to 3 years old.
We want to establish cooperation with the company to consider the expansion of its production, and launch its production in Zimbabwe. This would contribute to the development of our country.
Zimbabwe is located in the center of the Southern African region. The countries around us could also benefit from such cooperation.
Both mothers and women in our country would also welcome such cooperation.
It is very important when a child’s health can be ensured from the earliest days.
</blockquote>
Grodno Oblast Governor Vladimir Karanik said Bellakt has enough capacity to meet Zimbabwe’s baby food requirements. Said Karanik:
<blockquote>
We discussed various options for cooperation between Grodno Oblast and Zimbabwe.
Mrs. Auxillia Mnangagwa pays a lot of attention to the health of women and the organization of children’s health.
This means good nutrition and access to medical care. Therefore, the production of baby food is, probably, one of the priorities of her visit.
We can fully satisfy Zimbabwe’s needs for baby food. The capacities of Bellakt are enough for that.
Given the geographical location of Zimbabwe and active interaction with its neighbours, it is proposed to consider the possibility of joint production, which will cover not only the needs of Zimbabwe but also other African countries.
</blockquote>
He said Bellakt plans to take part in the upcoming Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
Karanik said the exhibition will help the Belarusian company to continue the negotiations on the possibility of expanding to Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Belarusian Infant Formula Manufacturing Company Plans To Expand To Zimbabwe

Harare West MP, Joanah Mamombe (MDC Alliance) says First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her two sons, Collins and Sean are not government officials and therefore, have no right to conduct government business with foreigners.
This comes after pictures of the First Lady and her sons in the company of controversial businessman, Aleksander Zingman, meeting Belarusian Foreign Affairs minister Sergei Aleinik were posted on the Information Ministry’s social media pages last Friday.
Mnangagwa and her entourage last week reportedly chartered a private plane, a Gulfstream G550, to Belarus.
Media reports from Belarus indicate that Mnangagwa met with President Aleksandr Lukashenko to discuss government business.
Under Zimbabwean law, first ladies do not hold official government positions.
Posting on Twitter, Mamombe, who is a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party led by Nelson Chamisa but was elected Harare West MP on an MDC Alliance ticket in 2018, said Zimbabwe’s future is being mortgaged in plain sight to benefit a few elites. She said:
<blockquote>
Auxillia and Sons (Pvt) LTD, are they government officials?
There is no minister in sight during those discussions which were called, “Deepening Bilateral relations”, by state media.
It is the First Lady and her sons doing govt business, in what capacity? To whose benefit?
The nation is being mortgaged in plain sight. The future of Zimbabwe is mortgaged for the benefit of an elite few.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Team Pachedu has urged Parliament to investigate the agreements that were signed between Mnangagwa and Belarusian officials. They wrote:
<blockquote>
Grace Mugabe never crossed this line. Auxillia Mnangagwa does not have the constitutional mandate to sign foreign agreements on behalf of Zimbabweans, or in the name of Zimbabwe. Parliament must probe this Belarus scandal!
</blockquote>
Ali Naka wrote:
<blockquote>
In what Capacity is Auxillia Mnangagwa meeting Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko? Is she now the Deputy President #GoldMafia
</blockquote>
When <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010059/auxillia-belarus-trip-raises-eyebrows">NewsDay</a> contacted Presidential communications secretary Regis Chikowore for a comment, he said he could not comment on matters involving the First Lady.
When presidential spokesperson George Charamba was asked whether the First Lady’s Belarus visit was official or private, he kept saying: “Hello, hello, hello”.
Foreign Affairs ministry spokesperson Livit Mugejo also referred all questions to the First Lady’s office.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Auxillia And Sons (Pvt) LTD", Mamombe Says Zimbabwe's Future Is Being Mortgaged

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa last week reportedly chartered a private plane to Belarus with her twin sons, Collins and Sean.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010059/auxillia-belarus-trip-raises-eyebrows">NewsDay</a> reported that Mnangagwa and her entourage hired a Gulfstream G550, whose average hourly rental rate is around US$10 900.
It takes an average of 10 hours to travel from Harare to Minsk, the Belarusian capital and this means a one-way trip costs US$109 000.
Media reports from Belarus indicate that Mnangagwa met with President Aleksandr Lukashenko to discuss government business.
Under Zimbabwean law, first ladies do not hold official government positions.
It is not yet clear under what arrangement Auxillia is conducting business on behalf of the State.
On Tuesday, pictures emerged of her engaged in a meeting with Lukashenko and his aides.
Pictures of the First Lady and her sons in the company of controversial businessman, Aleksander Zingman, meeting Belarusian Foreign Affairs minister Sergei Aleinik were posted on the Information Ministry’s social media pages last Friday.
Zingman was appointed honourary consul for Zimbabwe by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2019.
Presidential communications secretary Regis Chikowore told NewsDay that he could not comment on matters involving the First Lady.
When presidential spokesperson George Charamba was asked whether the First Lady’s Belarus visit was official or private, he kept saying: “Hello, hello, hello”.
Foreign Affairs ministry spokesperson Livit Mugejo also referred all questions to the First Lady’s office.
Addressing the media in the Belarusian capital, Minsk on 11 April 2023 after meeting Lukashenko, Mnangagwa said there were no topics deemed off-limits during the meeting. She said:
<blockquote>
We had a wonderful meeting with Mr. President. There were no closed topics between us. I felt absolutely at home. We discussed absolutely everything.
I can see now that our cooperation will move forward. He [the Belarusian president] has one important thing that we have, too. He is able and willing to work hard.
… I saw the care he takes for his country and his people. We saw how they take care of the children in hospitals.
That is why I told him: “Mr. President, let me tell you that you are not only a father – you are also a mother to your country.”
</blockquote>
Unusually, she did not travel with journalists from the State media.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa's Trip To Belarus On A Chartered Plane Raises Eyebrows

The First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa addressed the media in the Belarusian capital, Minsk on 11 April 2023 after meeting President Aleksandr Lukashenko.
Mnangagwa, who is on a week-long visit to the East European country, said there were no topics deemed off-limits during her meeting with Lukashenko.
<a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/first-lady-of-zimbabwe-comments-on-talks-with-lukashenko-157996-2023/">BelTA</a> reported that Mnangagwa told the media that they “discussed absolutely everything.” She said:
<blockquote>
We had a wonderful meeting with Mr. President. There were no closed topics between us. I felt absolutely at home. We discussed absolutely everything.
I can see now that our cooperation will move forward. He [the Belarusian president] has one important thing that we have, too. He is able and willing to work hard.
… I saw the care he takes for his country and his people. We saw how they take care of the children in hospitals. 
That is why I told him: “Mr. President, let me tell you that you are not only a father – you are also a mother to your country.”
</blockquote>
The parties discussed exchange programmes and opportunities for Zimbabwean specialists to study at Belarusian universities in the professions that are in demand in Zimbabwe.
She said they discussed cooperation in various areas which included medicine, agriculture, and the mining industry, each of which affects the quality of people’s lives.
During her one-week stay in Belarus, Mnangagwa visited a number of enterprises and organizations of the Healthcare Ministry and the Belarusian infant nutrition company Bellakt in the Grodno Region.
She also held meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Belarusian Women’s Union and visited the Khatyn Memorial complex.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Comments On Talks With President Lukashenko

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa met Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk on 11 April 2023.
According to <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-meets-with-first-lady-of-zimbabwe-157992-2023/">BelTA</a>, Lukashenko said that Mnangagwa asked for help in establishing a system similar to the Belarusian one in the area of maternity services, help for children, especially newborns, and child nutrition. Lukashenko was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Dear Mrs. Auxillia Mnangagwa, as we agreed with the president, you are in Belarus today on a very important visit.
I am fulfilling the request of my friend President Emmerson so that the technologies that are in demand in Zimbabwe are in your country.
We are ready to help you implement several projects at the request of your country and your president to build high-tech enterprises. First of all, this concerns humanitarian activities.
In short, women and children are the priority, and Emmerson told me this many times during my visit to your country.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko said during his engagements with Mnangagwa or a recent State visit to Zimbabwe, they agreed that there was a need for a responsible person from Zimbabwe to oversee the implementation of the relevant programmes. He said:
<blockquote>
Frankly speaking, I told him that this responsible person should be you.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko said during her visit to Belarus, Mnangagwa got familiar with the opportunities available in the country. Said Lukashenko:
<blockquote>
The doors were open everywhere. So you are welcome to choose and decide, and we will start to act.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa is on a visit to Belarus following the agreements on cooperation in humanitarian affairs reached by the two heads of state.
During her one-week stay in Belarus, Mnangagwa visited a number of enterprises and organizations of the Healthcare Ministry and the Belarusian infant nutrition company Bellakt in the Grodno Region.
She also held meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Belarusian Women’s Union and visited the Khatyn Memorial complex.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Meets Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko In Minsk

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her son Emmerson Junior will most likely feature in Al Jazeera’s “Gold Mafia” documentary, with three out of four episodes yet to be premiered, it has emerged.
This was revealed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Ambassador At Large Uebert Angel in a statement released on Saturday as his office tried to clear his name after undercover Al Jazeera journalists showed him offering to launder US$1.2 billion boasting that he was the second-most-powerful person in Zimbabwe.
In the first episode of the documentary, titled “The Laundry Service”, Angel is seen calling Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Henrietta Rushwaya in the presence of the undercover reporters.
Angel made the calls in an attempt to convince the “investors” that he was able to facilitate the laundering of more than a billion US dollars in cash.
However, in a statement on Saturday, Angel’s office said during his interactions with the Al Jazeera crew, he suspected that they were not genuine and decided to use “decoys”.
Angel inadvertently revealed that the President’s wife and son will feature in the documentary when he said “these decoys… posed as Henrietta Rushwaya, the First Lady and the First Son”.
A statement released on his behalf by the Chief Investment Officer in the Office of Presidential Envoy and Ambassador at Large (OPEAAL), Sobona Mtisi, read in part:
<blockquote>
After these suspicions, the team switched to ‘red’ protocol, with the decision to proceed with extreme caution, be in the middle, and play along, and never to facilitate a meeting between the “investors” and the His Excellency, the President.
With this knowledge, and at the insistence of the “investors” Ambassador Angel made several calls to decoys working with our office.
It is these decoys who posed as Henrietta Rushwaya, the First Lady, and the First Son.
The calls to the decoys were made in light of the leading questions asked by the “investors”.
They kept pushing to have the First Family in the discussion, especially the First Lady and the President.
They even threw in figures to help in the charity organisation which Ambassador Angel refused and even told them he had his own money; this part was omitted from the documentary.
It’s just amazing how people are made to believe what has been propagated as gospel.
The best these people got are the audios from the decoys, they never got the chance to film the President or the First Lady because the Ambassador was already informed by the security agents prior to getting in the meeting that they didn’t have the money they claimed to have.
However, as aforementioned, we battled with what if the intelligence is wrong and the country loses the much-needed investment.
The decoys helped in asserting that if they were real investors, we would be able to get it from their reactions after the call.
There is no way Ambassador Angel could get hold of the First Lady and First Son without pre-arrangements and standard security clearance procedures in place in meeting with the First Family.
Moreover, the Ambassador has never met the First Lady. They never met and never had any direct dealings.
It would have been prudent for these “investors” to verify if the calls were indeed made to the people that Ambassador claimed to be calling.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Uebert Angel Reveals First Family Features In Al Jazeera documentary

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa was on Wednesday conferred with an honorary doctorate by the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU).
Mnangagwa’s degree was received by Women’s Affairs Minister Sithembiso Nyoni in her absence.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa presented the doctorate at ZOU’s colourful Wednesday graduation.
According to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the honorary doctorate is a reward for Mnangagwa’s “hard work” n improving lives of the country’s disadvantaged communities. The Ministry said:
First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa has been conferred an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in Development Studies by ZOU in honour of her efforts to improve the standard of living in disadvantaged communities through philanthropic work.
The accolade for her excellency Amai Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa was received on her behalf by Nyoni, Minister of Women Affairs as she is out of the country on other duties.
The former first lady, Grace Mugabe, also received a doctorate from the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) in 2014.
However, the conferment of a PhD on Grace resulted in the criminal prosecution of the institution’s Vice Chancellor Levi Nyagura for criminal abuse of office.
It was alleged that Nyagura abused his position since Grace did not meet the minimum requirements to study for the degree.| <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/out-gracing-grace-mugabe-mnangagwa-caps-auxillia-as-first-lady-gets-phd-degree/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Gets PhD Degree From Zimbabwe Open University

The nine-year-old girl from Masekesa village in Tsholotsho under Chief Gampu has given birth.
She gave birth to a baby girl on Monday morning via a Caesarean section at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).
The specialist who was managing the girl at UBH Dr Ellen Takaringwa confirmed the birth. She said:
<blockquote>
The baby was born in the early hours of the morning. Both the baby and mother are fine. We are monitoring the mother as she is in the first crucial hours. The baby was 3 090g and it’s a girl.
</blockquote>
Acting clinical director of the hospital Dr Harrison Rambanapasi said that both the girl and the baby were in stable condition. Said Dr Rambanapasi:
<blockquote>
I wish to inform the nation that our nine-year-old has given birth at UBH. Our specialists performed the C-section in the early hours of today, Monday the 14th.
The outcome is a healthy baby girl with a weight just above 3kg. Both the mother and the baby are in a stable condition.
Once again I would like to thank the team looking after this patient for their hard work and professional conduct throughout.
The pressure was very high as everyone wanted to see the patient but the specialists focused on the needs of the patient and made sure that her right to privacy was protected and upheld.
Even when her Excellency, the First Lady came to see our patient she also emphasised the need to protect this unfortunate girl from the negative repercussions of publicity.
</blockquote>
According to the mother of the nine-year-old, she started menstruating at about seven years.
She then took her to their local clinic in Tsholotsho where she was told it was common owing to the type of food being consumed in the 21st century.
The family then took her to a faith healer who prayed for the girl and the menstruation stopped.
However, her stomach started growing and the mother only sought medical help later and it was discovered the child was over seven months pregnant.
She was initially managed at Mpilo Central Hospital and later transferred to UBH at 32 weeks.
The father of the minor was arrested on 29 August 2022 when it was discovered that she was pregnant.
The girl revealed that her father told her that a goblin would come at night and insert things into her privates.
She also said the “goblin” only came when her father was present. | <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/tsholotsho-girl-gives-birth-both-in-stable-condition/">Chronicle</a>

9-year-old Tsholotsho Girl Gives Birth To Baby Girl

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa said she was heartbroken when she saw the nine-year-old pregnant girl from Tsholotsho.
Mnangagwa visited the girl on Saturday at a safe house in Bulawayo where she is being kept for monitoring by a team of health experts. She said, as reported by <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2022/11/13/first-lady-visits-the-9-year-old-pregnant-girl/">ZBC News</a>:
<blockquote>
I came to see this baby as a mother and as a grandmother. When I first heard her story I could not believe it because of her age, but I have seen it with my eyes it is true it’s there, and it’s real. As it is she is eight months pregnant.
It really broke my heart and it’s shocking and unbelievable. The law should protect us as women.
As women, we do not take the law into our own hands but we expect the law to protect us and even the courts to help us with such matters.
Now is the time for us to unite and fight for our families and ensure justice is served for the little girl.
I always say as women we should know our kids. These days you just cannot trust anyone with your kids from the dad to the brother. Let’s monitor the well-being of our kids.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the girl reportedly gave birth at the United Bulawayo Hospitals on Monday morning via a cesarean operation.

"It Really Broke My Heart," First Lady Speaks About Meeting Pregnant Tsholotsho Girl

Businessman Frank Sadiqi Buyanga has been arrested in South Africa on allegations of child trafficking and other charges.
Charges also include immigration violations and forgery, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/just-in-business-tycoon-buyanga-arrested-in-south-africa/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> reported citing a SAPS statement signed by Colonel Athlenda Mathe. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Sadiqi is wanted by the Zimbabwean authorities for child trafficking, forgery and violation of the immigration act.
The charges emanate from an incident which took place in April 2020 in Zimbabwe where the suspect kidnapped his next of kin and fled with him to South Africa.
A warrant of arrest was immediately issued by Zimbabwean Authorities after which a red notice was also issued by Interpol Harare.
</blockquote>
Buyanga and his ex-girlfriend Chantelle Muteswa have for years been embroiled in a legal battle over the custody of their minor son.
In 2020 Buyanga allegedly kidnapped his son from the hands of the mother and fled to South Africa.
This was after he was granted custody by the Supreme Court in a landmark ruling that gave equal access to unmarried couples.
Buyanga was allegedly being accompanied by two men armed with guns when he staged the ‘heist’ outside a Spar Supermarket in Harare’s Waterfalls suburb.
He was later listed on Interpol’s Red Notice.
Chantelle involved the first family in the matter prompting the <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/11/full-text-buyanga-tells-ed-to-stop-meddling-in-his-custody-and-personal-matters/">businessman to fume “demanding that Mrs Auxillia Mnangagwa and her sons desist</a> with their involvement, has been sent.” 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Zim Businessman Frank Buyanga Arrested In South Africa For Child Trafficking

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa is reportedly set to contest ZANU PF’s Central Committee elections after successfully submitting her Curriculum Vitae (CV) at the party’s offices in Kwekwe.
The ruling party holds Central Committee elections across the country this Saturday, 08 October 2022.
<a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/auxillia-mnangagwa-to-contest-zanu-pf-central-committee-polls/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> reported a source from Midlands as saying ZANU PF members in the province fully support Mnangagwa’s bid to return to the Central Committee. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The First Lady successfully submitted her CV at the Kwekwe office and she is going to contest in the elections.
It’s a done deal as there is no one who is against the idea of the first lady going back to the central committee.
</blockquote>
Some of the candidates who are going to contest from the Midlands are Local Government Minister July Moyo, former ZANU PF Midlands provincial chairperson Mackenzie-Ncube, Moses Murada, Kwekwe Parliamentary Women Representative Peserverance Zhou, former Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, Edward Fundira, former Minister Francis Nhema and Breakfast Ncube.
The Central Committee is the highest decision-making body outside Congress and members are contesting for 304 Central Committee positions.

Auxillia Mnangagwa To Contest ZANU PF Central Committee Elections | Report

Dethroned and exiled Ntabazinduna chief, Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni, says First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa is welcome to visit the area but should respect local cultural norms and values.
Mnangagwa is set to visit Ntabazinduna on Saturday, 18 June 2022 as part of her men’s engagement programmes.
During the engagements, the First Lady is discussing health issues affecting men and enhancing their involvement in efforts to curb domestic violence, drug abuse and child marriages among other issues.
In a petition dated 12 June directed to Matabeleland North provincial development coordinator Sithandiwe Ncube and copied to Umguza district development coordinator Tapiwa Zivovoyi, Ndiweni said:
<blockquote>
The elders and village heads informed me that the First Lady is to visit Ntabazinduna on June 18. She is welcome. Her last visit was on November 9, 2018, when she launched a supplementary feeding programme for vulnerable children with food insecurity.
I bring this matter up with the hope that the First Lady’s visit does not become political. With respect to customs, traditions, practises and norms, the seat of the government of Zimbabwe in communal lands, is the chief‘s residence.
Customs and traditions dictate that such guests must enter the chief’s residence and greet the occupants. For he/she would not only be greeting the incumbent chief but also availing themselves to the chiefs who are gone, and so it is more than symbolic.
</blockquote>
Ndiweni added that the First Lady’s willingness to fight teenage pregnancies and early marriages was appreciated. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Under-age teenage girls are becoming pregnant, dropping out of school, having health issues, and entering toxic relationships that do not conform to our customs and traditions. It is for this reason that we welcome the First Lady.
The current economic challenges and lack of employment exacerbate the issue of the girl child.
Customs and traditions are not advancing the notion of early marriages but rather are there to support the immediate family and indeed the extended family.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/06/former-chief-ndiweni-cautions-first-lady/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Dethroned And Exiled Chief Welcomes First Lady Initiative

First lady Auxillia Mnangagwa reportedly shocked Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) staff at the Forbes border post after she erupted in anger, accusing them of corruption.
According to a ZimLive report, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife shouted at one ZIMRA employee for staring at her and her aides also grabbed a manager by his belt.
The incident allegedly took place in early May this year as the first lady returned from an unexplained road trip to Mozambique. ZimLive quoted a source as saying:
<blockquote>
She got out of her vehicle with aides and started shouting at everyone, accusing the border officials of being corrupt.
She started asking those who were close for their names. She picked on a ZIMRA officer and accused him of staring at her as if she was a prostitute.
She then demanded to see the ZIMRA manager, Tichaona Phiri, who was in his office. She sent her aides to get him. He was literally manhandled by his belt to meet her.
She shouted at him for not coming to meet her and then instructed her boys to ‘take him and go with him.
The poor manager was moved around the border while being held by his belt. She kept on shouting.
When the manager was finally let go, she demanded that he should be fired as well as the ZIMRA officer accused of staring.
</blockquote>
Phiri, the regional manager for ZIMRA, reportedly moved out of his office and started working from home following the incident.
The reason behind Mnangagwa’s alleged outburst has not been revealed, however, it is suspected that it is linked to two incidents at the border when goods linked to the first family or their associates were withheld. Said a ZimLive source at the border:
<blockquote>
Phiri seized 15 trucks loaded with chrome which had been under-weighed.
The trucks were destined for shipment in Beira and had the fingerprints of the first family.
It took the intervention of the ZIMRA commissioner for customs (Batsirai Chadzingwa) for the trucks to be released.
On another occasion, one of the sons imported some Italian booze which was labelled in Italian.
It was held up because no one at the border understood Italian.
After angry phone calls, Chadzingwa stepped in once more to get it released.
</blockquote>
Chadzingwa reportedly visited the Forbes border to understand what really transpired after the Auxillia Mnangagwa incident.
A ZIMRA spokesman refused to comment on the incident.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/06/zimra-staff-left-shaken-after-auxillia-mnangagwa-erupts/">ZimLive</a></h4>

ZIMRA Staff "Left Shaken" After Auxillia Mnangagwa Causes Stir At Border Post

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa said that the collapse of the manufacturing industry in the country and the high rate of unemployment were caused by sanctions and Zimbabweans should pray hard for their removal.
Zimbabwe has been under sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union since it expropriated farms from white farmers for redistribution to landless blacks in the early 2000s.
Addressing delegates at a drugs and gender sensitisation conference for men drawn from Harare and Chitungwiza at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex on Tuesday, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
We are a developing country. We are under sanctions and then COVID-19 came and some companies closed because of the pandemic.
What wrong did we do for us to have sanctions? We need to pray hard for them to be removed to be able to have exports and credit lines. No one would want to invest in a nation under sanctions.
It’s just a matter of time. Let us keep on praying for our country. One day God will intervene.
Let us not hate our nation. Let us work for it. Let us find what we can do to take it forward.
If we continue using hate speech we will speak negatively in a positive country.
You end up hating your neighbour, yourself and committing suicide.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa used the conference to launch various economic empowerment initiatives to support women through her Angel of Hope Foundation.
She warned police officers against involvement in the selling of drugs and protecting drug lords.
Speaking at the conference, Chief Chikwaka, born Murambiwa Witness Bungu, castigated men who sexually abuse the girl child.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/03/first-lady-blames-unemployment-on-sanctions/">NewsDay</a></h4>

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