WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, March 22, 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-pramod-sawant-takes-oath-as-goa-chief-minister-says-will-never-be-able-to-do-as-much-as-parrikar-204182">BJP's Pramod Sawant sworn in as new Goa chief minister, says 'will never be able to do as much as Parrikar'</a>

The BJP's Pramod Sawant was sworn in as chief minister of Goa at 1.50 am on Tuesday. Eleven ministers were sworn in along with him.&nbsp;

"I will not be able to work as much as Manohar Parrikar ji but I will definitely try to work as much as possible," Sawant said shortly after taking office. He added that it was Parrikar who had brought him into politics.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/media-working-overtime-to-blame-me-for-new-zealand-mosque-attacks-204207">Media 'working overtime to blame me' for New Zealand mosque attacks: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump has said the media is "working overtime to blame me" for the New Zealand mosque attacks.&nbsp;

The attacks on the two mosques last Friday in Christchurch have left 50 people dead. Trump has condemned the attacks but he has refused to come down as strongly on white nationalism.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1000-feared-dead-in-mozambique-storm-204202">Over 1,000 feared dead in Mozambique storm</a>

More than a thousand people are feared to have died in a cyclone that smashed into Mozambique last week, while scores were killed and more than 200 are missing in neighbouring Zimbabwe.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-ardern-vows-mosque-gunman-will-face-full-force-of-law-204206">New Zealand PM Ardern vows mosque gunman will face 'full force of law'</a>

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern promised on Tuesday that the man responsible for last week's deadly mosque massacres would face "the full force of the law", as she vowed never to utter his name.

"He sought many things from his act of terror, but one was notoriety —&nbsp;that is why you will never hear me mention his name," Ardern said in an emotional address to a special meeting of parliament, which she opened with the Arabic greeting "as salaam aleikum" —&nbsp;'peace be upon you'.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/akshay-kumar-is-not-planning-to-contest-2019-lok-sabha-elections-204188">Akshay Kumar not planning to contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections</a>

If there is an actor who has been making films with the theme of nation-building, it's Akshay Kumar. The actor's past few blockbuster hits have all had nationalism as their theme which made many speculate if the actor was planning to join politics.&nbsp;

There were also rumours that the BJP was planning on making Akshay contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Amritsar.&nbsp;

Quashing rumours about his debut in politics, Akshay said, "Politics is not on my agenda. I feel what I am doing through my films, I will never be able to do that through politics." The actor was speaking to the press while promoting his upcoming film 'Kesari'.&nbsp;

BJP's Pramod Sawant sworn in as new Goa chief minister, says 'will never be able to do as much as Parrikar' The BJP's Pramod Sawant was sworn in as chief minister of Goa at 1.

BJP's Pramod Sawant sworn in as new Goa chief minister, says 'will never be able to do as much as Parrikar' The BJP's Pramod Sawant was sworn in as chief minister of Goa at 1.50 am on Tuesday. Eleven ministers were sworn in along with him. "I will not be able to work as much as Manohar Parrikar ji but I will definitely try to work as much as possible," Sawant said shortly after taking office. He added that it was Parrikar who had brought him into politics. Media 'working overtime to blame me' for New Zealand mosque attacks: Trump US President Donald Trump has said the media is "working overtime to blame me" for the New Zealand mosque attacks. The attacks on the two mosques last Friday in Christchurch have left 50 people dead. Trump has condemned the attacks but he has refused to come down as strongly on white nationalism. Over 1,000 feared dead in Mozambique storm More than a thousand people are feared to have died in a cyclone that smashed into Mozambique last week, while scores were killed and more than 200 are missing in neighbouring Zimbabwe. New Zealand PM Ardern vows mosque gunman will face 'full force of law' New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern promised on Tuesday that the man responsible for last week's deadly mosque massacres would face "the full force of the law", as she vowed never to utter his name. "He sought many things from his act of terror, but one was notoriety — that is why you will never hear me mention his name," Ardern said in an emotional address to a special meeting of parliament, which she opened with the Arabic greeting "as salaam aleikum" — 'peace be upon you'. Akshay Kumar not planning to contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections If there is an actor who has been making films with the theme of nation-building, it's Akshay Kumar. The actor's past few blockbuster hits have all had nationalism as their theme which made many speculate if the actor was planning to join politics. There were also rumours that the BJP was planning on making Akshay contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Amritsar. Quashing rumours about his debut in politics, Akshay said, "Politics is not on my agenda. I feel what I am doing through my films, I will never be able to do that through politics." The actor was speaking to the press while promoting his upcoming film 'Kesari'.

News brief: Big stories of the day

More than a thousand people are feared to have died in a cyclone that smashed into Mozambique last week, while scores were killed and more than 200 are missing in neighbouring Zimbabwe.

The city of Beira in central Mozambique bore Cyclone Idai's full wrath on Thursday before the storm barrelled on to neighbouring Zimbabwe, unleashing fierce winds and flash floods and washing away roads and houses.

"For the moment we have registered 84 deaths officially, but when we flew over the area... this morning to understand what's going on, everything indicates that we could register more than 1,000 deaths," Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi said in a nationwide address.

"This is a real humanitarian disaster," he said. "More than 100,000 people are in danger".

Aerial photographs released by a Christian non-profit organisation, the Mission Aviation Fellowship, showed groups of people stuck on rooftops with flood waters up to window level.

"The scale of damage... (in) Beira is massive and horrifying", the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said.

Ninety percent of the city of some 530,000 people and its surrounding area has been "damaged or destroyed," it said in a statement.

"The situation is terrible. The scale of devastation is enormous," the IFRC's Jamie LeSueur said.

"Almost everything is destroyed. Communication lines have been completely cut and roads have been destroyed. Some affected communities are not accessible."

A large dam burst on Sunday and cut off the last road to Beira, he said.

Sofala Province governor Alberto Mondlane warned that the "biggest threat we have now, even bigger than the cyclone, is floods because it’s raining more and more".

'A perfect storm'

Emma Beaty, coordinator of a grouping of NGOs known as Cosaco, said: "We've never had something of this magnitude before in Mozambique".

"Some dams have broken, and others have reached full capacity, they'll very soon open the flood gates. It's a convergence of flooding, cyclones, dams breaking and making a potential wave: everything's in place so we get a perfect storm."

Nyusi said the Pungwe and Buzi rivers in central Mozambique "have burst their banks and engulfed entire villages."

"Communities are isolated and bodies are floating" on the waters, he said.&nbsp;

Beira international airport was closed because of cyclone damage but later reopened.&nbsp;

Zimbabwe hit

In neighbouring Zimbabwe, Idai left 98 dead and at least 217 more missing, according to the Information ministry.

Families started burying their dead on Monday in damp graves, according to an AFP photographer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The storm swept away homes and ripped bridges to pieces, leaving destruction that the acting defence minister, Perrance Shiri, said "resembles the aftermath of a full-scale war".

Some roads were swallowed up by massive sinkholes, while bridges were ripped to pieces by flash floods.

"This is the worst infrastructural damage we have ever had," Zimbabwe's Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza said.&nbsp;

The eastern district of Chimanimani was worst-hit, with houses and most of the region's bridges washed away by flash floods.

The most affected areas are not yet accessible, and high winds and dense clouds have hampered military rescue helicopter flights.&nbsp;

Two pupils and a worker at a secondary school in the area were among those killed after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory.

Soldiers on Sunday helped rescue the surviving nearly 200 pupils, teachers and staff who had been trapped at the school in Chimanimani.

Joshua Sacco, lawmaker for Chimanimani, told AFP that between "150 to 200 people" are missing.

The majority of them are thought to be government workers, whose housing complex was completely engulfed by raging waters. Their fate was unknown because the area was still unreachable.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa cut short a visit to Abu Dhabi returning home on Monday.

"With every hour and day that passes, our worst fears become increasingly real," he said in a statement "Many drowned while others were killed in their sleep from swift and unexpected rockfalls which demolished their homes".

His government has come under fire for failing to evacuate people in time.

More than a thousand people are feared to have died in a cyclone that smashed into Mozambique last week, while scores were killed and more than 200 are missing in neighbouring Zimbabwe.

More than a thousand people are feared to have died in a cyclone that smashed into Mozambique last week, while scores were killed and more than 200 are missing in neighbouring Zimbabwe. The city of Beira in central Mozambique bore Cyclone Idai's full wrath on Thursday before the storm barrelled on to neighbouring Zimbabwe, unleashing fierce winds and flash floods and washing away roads and houses. "For the moment we have registered 84 deaths officially, but when we flew over the area... this morning to understand what's going on, everything indicates that we could register more than 1,000 deaths," Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi said in a nationwide address. "This is a real humanitarian disaster," he said. "More than 100,000 people are in danger". Aerial photographs released by a Christian non-profit organisation, the Mission Aviation Fellowship, showed groups of people stuck on rooftops with flood waters up to window level. "The scale of damage... (in) Beira is massive and horrifying", the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said. Ninety percent of the city of some 530,000 people and its surrounding area has been "damaged or destroyed," it said in a statement. "The situation is terrible. The scale of devastation is enormous," the IFRC's Jamie LeSueur said. "Almost everything is destroyed. Communication lines have been completely cut and roads have been destroyed. Some affected communities are not accessible." A large dam burst on Sunday and cut off the last road to Beira, he said. Sofala Province governor Alberto Mondlane warned that the "biggest threat we have now, even bigger than the cyclone, is floods because it’s raining more and more". 'A perfect storm' Emma Beaty, coordinator of a grouping of NGOs known as Cosaco, said: "We've never had something of this magnitude before in Mozambique". "Some dams have broken, and others have reached full capacity, they'll very soon open the flood gates. It's a convergence of flooding, cyclones, dams breaking and making a potential wave: everything's in place so we get a perfect storm." Nyusi said the Pungwe and Buzi rivers in central Mozambique "have burst their banks and engulfed entire villages." "Communities are isolated and bodies are floating" on the waters, he said. Beira international airport was closed because of cyclone damage but later reopened. Zimbabwe hit In neighbouring Zimbabwe, Idai left 98 dead and at least 217 more missing, according to the Information ministry. Families started burying their dead on Monday in damp graves, according to an AFP photographer. The storm swept away homes and ripped bridges to pieces, leaving destruction that the acting defence minister, Perrance Shiri, said "resembles the aftermath of a full-scale war". Some roads were swallowed up by massive sinkholes, while bridges were ripped to pieces by flash floods. "This is the worst infrastructural damage we have ever had," Zimbabwe's Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza said. The eastern district of Chimanimani was worst-hit, with houses and most of the region's bridges washed away by flash floods. The most affected areas are not yet accessible, and high winds and dense clouds have hampered military rescue helicopter flights. Two pupils and a worker at a secondary school in the area were among those killed after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory. Soldiers on Sunday helped rescue the surviving nearly 200 pupils, teachers and staff who had been trapped at the school in Chimanimani. Joshua Sacco, lawmaker for Chimanimani, told AFP that between "150 to 200 people" are missing. The majority of them are thought to be government workers, whose housing complex was completely engulfed by raging waters. Their fate was unknown because the area was still unreachable. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa cut short a visit to Abu Dhabi returning home on Monday. "With every hour and day that passes, our worst fears become increasingly real," he said in a statement "Many drowned while others were killed in their sleep from swift and unexpected rockfalls which demolished their homes". His government has come under fire for failing to evacuate people in time.

Over 1,000 feared dead in Mozambique storm

More than 120 people have died and many more are missing in Mozambique and neighbouring Zimbabwe on Sunday after tropical cyclone Idai barrelled across the southern African nations with flash floods and ferocious winds.

Authorities in Mozambique said the toll there had risen to 62 in the centre of the country, while Zimbabwe said 65 people were killed in affected eastern areas after the cyclone tore across the region on Friday and Saturday.

Mozambique's environment Minister Celso Correia gave AFP the country's updated number of deaths in Beira and Dondo districts, but warned: "We will certainly end with a higher toll."

"I think this is the biggest natural disaster Mozambique has ever faced. Everything is destroyed. Our priority now is to save human lives," he said at Beira international airport, which reopened Sunday after being temporarily closed because of cyclone damage.

Idai hit Mozambique first on Thursday night before moving to Zimbabwe.

In Zimbabwe, eastern Chimanimani district was the worst-hit part of the country, where houses and bridges were washed away by flash floods when the storm slammed the area.&nbsp;

The most affected areas are not yet accessible, while high winds and dense clouds have hampered military rescue helicopter flights.&nbsp;

"So far we looking at 65 people that have lost their lives," Joshua Sacco, lawmaker for Chimanimani, told AFP by phone, adding that between "150 to 200 people" are missing.

The majority of those unaccounted for are thought to be government workers, whose housing complex was completely engulfed by raging waters. Their fate is currently unknown because the area is still unreachable.

"We are very worried because all these houses were just suddenly submerged under water and literally washed away and that is where we have about 147 missing," he said. "It's very sad and the situation is dire."

Two pupils at a secondary school in the area were among those killed after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, the country's civil protection agency said.

School pupils rescued

Soldiers on Sunday helped rescue nearly 200 pupils, teachers and staff who had been trapped at the school in Chimanimani.&nbsp;

The group had to wade through waterlogged and mud-churned roads for some 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) to reach a relief area, where they were given food and checked by medics, according to an AFP photographer.

Tents have been set up to provide shelter for those affected by the cyclone and scores of villagers have made their way to the relief area, some having trekked for up to 20 kilometres to reach safety.

Roads have been swallowed by massive sinkholes, while bridges were ripped to pieces by the flash floods, according to the AFP photographer.

The United Nations in Zimbabwe said that nearly 10,000 were affected by the cyclone.

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who cut short a visit to Abu Dhabi over the cyclone, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas.

'Worst disaster'

Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday, cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira where the environment minister said 80 per cent of the electricity network was destroyed.

"All roads are cut, the infrastructure is destroyed, practically everything is destroyed," said Correia.

Beira international airport was briefly shut after the air traffic control tower and navigation equipment were partially destroyed by the cyclone. Flights began flying in on Sunday.

A significant part of the central region was "absolutely decimated by this cyclone, even larger than anticipated," said Jamie LeSueur, the International Federation of Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa after an aerial survey of the affected areas in Mozambique.

"It's bad and there's potential for it to get even worse," he said as rain continued in Zimbabwe, "which could potentially lead to another flood," said in Beira.&nbsp;

The World Food Programme (WFP) said its "projections indicate at-least 1.7 million people were in the direct path of the cyclone in Mozambique, and 920,000 people were affected in Malawi. Thousands more are potentially impacted by events in Zimbabwe where assessments are ongoing".

Despite having part of its roof torn off, Beira airport was busy handling flights and relief agencies have been setting up operation hubs there.

One Portuguese software business company owner Luis Leonor, 49, flew in from Maputo after having contacted with his wife via satellite phone on Saturday.

"She is fine. My house is fine but there's no more running water. I don't know what I will find there," he said. "My five employees lost their houses, they are staying at our offices."

Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier this month had already claimed 66 lives in Mozambique and 56 in Malawi.

&nbsp;

More than 120 people have died and many more are missing in Mozambique and neighbouring Zimbabwe on Sunday after tropical cyclone Idai barrelled across the southern African nations with flash floods and ferocious winds.

More than 120 people have died and many more are missing in Mozambique and neighbouring Zimbabwe on Sunday after tropical cyclone Idai barrelled across the southern African nations with flash floods and ferocious winds. Authorities in Mozambique said the toll there had risen to 62 in the centre of the country, while Zimbabwe said 65 people were killed in affected eastern areas after the cyclone tore across the region on Friday and Saturday. Mozambique's environment Minister Celso Correia gave AFP the country's updated number of deaths in Beira and Dondo districts, but warned: "We will certainly end with a higher toll." "I think this is the biggest natural disaster Mozambique has ever faced. Everything is destroyed. Our priority now is to save human lives," he said at Beira international airport, which reopened Sunday after being temporarily closed because of cyclone damage. Idai hit Mozambique first on Thursday night before moving to Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, eastern Chimanimani district was the worst-hit part of the country, where houses and bridges were washed away by flash floods when the storm slammed the area. The most affected areas are not yet accessible, while high winds and dense clouds have hampered military rescue helicopter flights. "So far we looking at 65 people that have lost their lives," Joshua Sacco, lawmaker for Chimanimani, told AFP by phone, adding that between "150 to 200 people" are missing. The majority of those unaccounted for are thought to be government workers, whose housing complex was completely engulfed by raging waters. Their fate is currently unknown because the area is still unreachable. "We are very worried because all these houses were just suddenly submerged under water and literally washed away and that is where we have about 147 missing," he said. "It's very sad and the situation is dire." Two pupils at a secondary school in the area were among those killed after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, the country's civil protection agency said. School pupils rescued Soldiers on Sunday helped rescue nearly 200 pupils, teachers and staff who had been trapped at the school in Chimanimani. The group had to wade through waterlogged and mud-churned roads for some 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) to reach a relief area, where they were given food and checked by medics, according to an AFP photographer. Tents have been set up to provide shelter for those affected by the cyclone and scores of villagers have made their way to the relief area, some having trekked for up to 20 kilometres to reach safety. Roads have been swallowed by massive sinkholes, while bridges were ripped to pieces by the flash floods, according to the AFP photographer. The United Nations in Zimbabwe said that nearly 10,000 were affected by the cyclone. Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who cut short a visit to Abu Dhabi over the cyclone, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas. 'Worst disaster' Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday, cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira where the environment minister said 80 per cent of the electricity network was destroyed. "All roads are cut, the infrastructure is destroyed, practically everything is destroyed," said Correia. Beira international airport was briefly shut after the air traffic control tower and navigation equipment were partially destroyed by the cyclone. Flights began flying in on Sunday. A significant part of the central region was "absolutely decimated by this cyclone, even larger than anticipated," said Jamie LeSueur, the International Federation of Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa after an aerial survey of the affected areas in Mozambique. "It's bad and there's potential for it to get even worse," he said as rain continued in Zimbabwe, "which could potentially lead to another flood," said in Beira. The World Food Programme (WFP) said its "projections indicate at-least 1.7 million people were in the direct path of the cyclone in Mozambique, and 920,000 people were affected in Malawi. Thousands more are potentially impacted by events in Zimbabwe where assessments are ongoing". Despite having part of its roof torn off, Beira airport was busy handling flights and relief agencies have been setting up operation hubs there. One Portuguese software business company owner Luis Leonor, 49, flew in from Maputo after having contacted with his wife via satellite phone on Saturday. "She is fine. My house is fine but there's no more running water. I don't know what I will find there," he said. "My five employees lost their houses, they are staying at our offices." Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier this month had already claimed 66 lives in Mozambique and 56 in Malawi.

More than 120 dead after cyclone hits Mozambique, Zimbabwe

Cyclone Idai killed at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-120-dead-after-cyclone-hits-mozambique-zimbabwe-203943">157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique</a> as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted.

The Mozambican port city of Beira has suffered massive damage, the Red Cross said. The storm has also pounded Malawi.

"The scale of devastation (in Beira) is enormous. It seems that 90 per cent of the area is completely destroyed," said Jamie LeSueur, leader of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) team there.

In Zimbabwe, the Chimanimani district has been cut off from the rest of the country by torrential rains and winds of up to 170 km per hour that swept away roads, homes and bridges and knocked out power and communication lines.

Zimbabwean information ministry official Nick Mangwana told Reuters the number of confirmed deaths throughout the country was now 89. The body count is expected to rise.

The Mozambican state news agency put the death toll in Beira at 68, although television channel TVM reported that about 84 people had died across Mozambique.

Zimbabwean rescuers were struggling to reach people in Chimanimani, many of whom have been sleeping in the mountains since Friday, after their homes were flattened by rock falls and mudslides or washed away by torrential rains. Many families cannot bury the dead due to the floods.

The Harare government has declared a state of disaster in areas affected by the storm, the worst to hit the country since Cyclone Eline devastated eastern and southern Zimbabwe in 2000.

The country of 15 million people is already suffering a severe drought that has wilted crops. A United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid.

In Beira, home to Mozambique's second largest port which serves as gateway for imports to landlocked countries in southeast Africa, billboards were blown down and electricity and telephone poles knocked down.

Large swathes of land city's outskirts were submerged, and many houses were destroyed. In some streets, people waded through knee-high water, avoiding piles of mangled metal, detached tin roofs and other debris.

Beira has a population of 500,000 and sits at the mouth of the Pungwe River.

The director of a company that jointly manages the port, Cornelder, based in The Netherlands, said the port had been closed since last Wednesday but was relatively all right and would hopefully resume operations on Tuesday.

At least two cranes would be working but damage to the access routes and roads further inland was more likely to cause a problem, said the director, who asked not to be named.

"It's a total blackout, so all networks and electricity are down," the person said, adding the company had large generators and enough fuel to run for now.

The fuel pipeline running from Beira to Zimbabwe was believed to be intact, the person said, though communication was still very patchy and therefore the situation at the port remained uncertain.

In February 2000, Cyclone Eline hit Mozambique when it was already devastated by its worst floods in three decades. It killed 350 people and made 650,000 homeless across southern Africa.

Cyclone Idai killed at least 157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted.

Cyclone Idai killed at least 157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted. The Mozambican port city of Beira has suffered massive damage, the Red Cross said. The storm has also pounded Malawi. "The scale of devastation (in Beira) is enormous. It seems that 90 per cent of the area is completely destroyed," said Jamie LeSueur, leader of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) team there. In Zimbabwe, the Chimanimani district has been cut off from the rest of the country by torrential rains and winds of up to 170 km per hour that swept away roads, homes and bridges and knocked out power and communication lines. Zimbabwean information ministry official Nick Mangwana told Reuters the number of confirmed deaths throughout the country was now 89. The body count is expected to rise. The Mozambican state news agency put the death toll in Beira at 68, although television channel TVM reported that about 84 people had died across Mozambique. Zimbabwean rescuers were struggling to reach people in Chimanimani, many of whom have been sleeping in the mountains since Friday, after their homes were flattened by rock falls and mudslides or washed away by torrential rains. Many families cannot bury the dead due to the floods. The Harare government has declared a state of disaster in areas affected by the storm, the worst to hit the country since Cyclone Eline devastated eastern and southern Zimbabwe in 2000. The country of 15 million people is already suffering a severe drought that has wilted crops. A United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid. In Beira, home to Mozambique's second largest port which serves as gateway for imports to landlocked countries in southeast Africa, billboards were blown down and electricity and telephone poles knocked down. Large swathes of land city's outskirts were submerged, and many houses were destroyed. In some streets, people waded through knee-high water, avoiding piles of mangled metal, detached tin roofs and other debris. Beira has a population of 500,000 and sits at the mouth of the Pungwe River. The director of a company that jointly manages the port, Cornelder, based in The Netherlands, said the port had been closed since last Wednesday but was relatively all right and would hopefully resume operations on Tuesday. At least two cranes would be working but damage to the access routes and roads further inland was more likely to cause a problem, said the director, who asked not to be named. "It's a total blackout, so all networks and electricity are down," the person said, adding the company had large generators and enough fuel to run for now. The fuel pipeline running from Beira to Zimbabwe was believed to be intact, the person said, though communication was still very patchy and therefore the situation at the port remained uncertain. In February 2000, Cyclone Eline hit Mozambique when it was already devastated by its worst floods in three decades. It killed 350 people and made 650,000 homeless across southern Africa.

Cyclone Idai: At least 157 killed in Zimbabwe, Mozambique

At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday.

Most of the deaths were in Chimanimani town, Zimbabwe's information ministry announced on Twitter.

Two of the victims were students who died after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, collapsing the wall of the dining room and trapping 50 of them, the country's Department of &nbsp;Civil Protection (DCP) said in a statement.

The boarding school has been shut and the army, which is leading rescue operations, is moving in to take the nearly 200 students to safety.

"So far a total of 71 people are reported missing," said the DCP.

Others who had fled their homes were stranded on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, including workers from a diamond mine, as strong winds and poor visibility hampered helicopter flights, the government said.

The storm damaged many houses and washed away bridges in the eastern Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. Thousands of people have been affected by power cuts and flooding, a lawmaker told AFP.

Earlier Saturday, Joshua Sacco, an MP in Chimanimani district, told AFP that more than 100 people were missing. Around 100 houses had been swept away in Ngangu township in Chimanimani town, he said.

Strong winds ripped roofs off prison cells in the southern city of Masvingo, according to state broadcaster ZBC.&nbsp;

The opposition Movement for Democratic Change called for immediate help for the storm-hit east, warning that a "serious humanitarian crisis" was unfolding.

"We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume wrote on Twitter.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently on a visit to Abu Dhabi, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas.

"My thoughts &amp; prayers are with all those affected by Cyclone Idai. Rescue operations are underway &amp; we are grateful for the bravery of the men &amp; women of the Zimbabwean armed forces who, along with our local &amp; international partners, are participating in the urgent rescue efforts," he tweeted.

'Dire situation' -

Tropical cyclone Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday killing at least 21 people there and cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira.

Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier in the week had already claimed 66 lives and forced 17,000 people from their homes in Mozambique, local officials said.

They also affected neighbouring Malawi, where 56 people died.

As the cyclone hit, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi appealed for emergency assistance for the victims before leaving for eSwatini.

"We have compatriots suffering without hope and we have to restore hope," he said on Friday as he set off on a three-day state visit to the kingdom previously known as Swaziland. &nbsp;

But in a statement Saturday his office said he was cutting short the eSwatini trip and would travel to the affected central regions on Sunday.

As the cyclone approached, the Red Cross sent out more than 200 volunteers to areas most likely to be affected.&nbsp;

"The situation is dire but we don't know the exact particulars," said Jamie LeSueur, the Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa.

The crisis requires a swift response with "the full force of the humanitarian community behind the government of Mozambique," he told AFP.

South Africa rations electricity

Beira's international airport was closed after the cyclone damaged the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways.

The storm also affected power supplies to neighbouring South Africa which imports electricity from Mozambique to supplement its own production.

South Africa's power utility company Eskom on Saturday introduced electricity rationing.

&nbsp;

At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday.

At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday. Most of the deaths were in Chimanimani town, Zimbabwe's information ministry announced on Twitter. Two of the victims were students who died after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, collapsing the wall of the dining room and trapping 50 of them, the country's Department of Civil Protection (DCP) said in a statement. The boarding school has been shut and the army, which is leading rescue operations, is moving in to take the nearly 200 students to safety. "So far a total of 71 people are reported missing," said the DCP. Others who had fled their homes were stranded on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, including workers from a diamond mine, as strong winds and poor visibility hampered helicopter flights, the government said. The storm damaged many houses and washed away bridges in the eastern Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. Thousands of people have been affected by power cuts and flooding, a lawmaker told AFP. Earlier Saturday, Joshua Sacco, an MP in Chimanimani district, told AFP that more than 100 people were missing. Around 100 houses had been swept away in Ngangu township in Chimanimani town, he said. Strong winds ripped roofs off prison cells in the southern city of Masvingo, according to state broadcaster ZBC. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change called for immediate help for the storm-hit east, warning that a "serious humanitarian crisis" was unfolding. "We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume wrote on Twitter. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently on a visit to Abu Dhabi, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas. "My thoughts & prayers are with all those affected by Cyclone Idai. Rescue operations are underway & we are grateful for the bravery of the men & women of the Zimbabwean armed forces who, along with our local & international partners, are participating in the urgent rescue efforts," he tweeted. 'Dire situation' - Tropical cyclone Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday killing at least 21 people there and cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira. Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier in the week had already claimed 66 lives and forced 17,000 people from their homes in Mozambique, local officials said. They also affected neighbouring Malawi, where 56 people died. As the cyclone hit, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi appealed for emergency assistance for the victims before leaving for eSwatini. "We have compatriots suffering without hope and we have to restore hope," he said on Friday as he set off on a three-day state visit to the kingdom previously known as Swaziland. But in a statement Saturday his office said he was cutting short the eSwatini trip and would travel to the affected central regions on Sunday. As the cyclone approached, the Red Cross sent out more than 200 volunteers to areas most likely to be affected. "The situation is dire but we don't know the exact particulars," said Jamie LeSueur, the Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa. The crisis requires a swift response with "the full force of the humanitarian community behind the government of Mozambique," he told AFP. South Africa rations electricity Beira's international airport was closed after the cyclone damaged the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways. The storm also affected power supplies to neighbouring South Africa which imports electricity from Mozambique to supplement its own production. South Africa's power utility company Eskom on Saturday introduced electricity rationing.

Cyclone Idai kills at least 31 as it hits eastern Zimbabwe

At least 31 people have died in eastern Zimbabwe while dozens were missing as homes and bridges were swept away by a tropical storm, state television reported on Saturday.

Cyclone Idai, which brought floodwater and destruction to areas of Mozambique and Malawi, hit Zimbabwe on Friday, cutting off power and communications.

Pictures shared on Twitter and television footage showed roads, houses and bridges that were washed away while communication towers were knocked down and electricity cables blocked roads in Chimanimani district, 410 kilometres (255 miles) east of the capital Harare.

State television ZBC said 31 people had died in the district while more than 70 people were missing.

The information ministry said the army had moved in to rescue 197 pupils trapped at a local school.

"This a very challenging operation as it's being undertaken as a ground effort because of unsafe weather conditions for air efforts," the ministry said in a statement.

Joshua Sacco, a member of parliament in Chimanimani earlier told Reuters the district had been cut off from the rest of the country as the storm left a trail of destruction reminiscent of Cyclone Eline in February 2000, which devastated southern Zimbabwe.

Sacco said the death toll was expected to rise as rescue efforts continued.

Chimanimani, which borders Mozambique, has been worst affected, with the storm causing floods as well as destroying crops and plantations, Zimbabwe's Ministry of Information said.

Air force helicopters were rescuing people, but flights were being slowed by heavy winds.

Zimbabwe has faced a severe drought this year that has damaged crops and a United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid.

The country's meteorological services expect rains to continue throughout the weekend.

At least 31 people have died in eastern Zimbabwe while dozens were missing as homes and bridges were swept away by a tropical storm, state television reported on Saturday.

At least 31 people have died in eastern Zimbabwe while dozens were missing as homes and bridges were swept away by a tropical storm, state television reported on Saturday. Cyclone Idai, which brought floodwater and destruction to areas of Mozambique and Malawi, hit Zimbabwe on Friday, cutting off power and communications. Pictures shared on Twitter and television footage showed roads, houses and bridges that were washed away while communication towers were knocked down and electricity cables blocked roads in Chimanimani district, 410 kilometres (255 miles) east of the capital Harare. State television ZBC said 31 people had died in the district while more than 70 people were missing. The information ministry said the army had moved in to rescue 197 pupils trapped at a local school. "This a very challenging operation as it's being undertaken as a ground effort because of unsafe weather conditions for air efforts," the ministry said in a statement. Joshua Sacco, a member of parliament in Chimanimani earlier told Reuters the district had been cut off from the rest of the country as the storm left a trail of destruction reminiscent of Cyclone Eline in February 2000, which devastated southern Zimbabwe. Sacco said the death toll was expected to rise as rescue efforts continued. Chimanimani, which borders Mozambique, has been worst affected, with the storm causing floods as well as destroying crops and plantations, Zimbabwe's Ministry of Information said. Air force helicopters were rescuing people, but flights were being slowed by heavy winds. Zimbabwe has faced a severe drought this year that has damaged crops and a United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid. The country's meteorological services expect rains to continue throughout the weekend.

Cyclone Idai batters Zimbabwe, at least 31 people dead

India offers some of the world's cheapest mobile data packs, with the US and UK logging among the highest prices, new research in the UK revealed on Tuesday.

Price comparison site Cable.co.uk found that 1 gigabyte (GB) of data cost $0.26 in India, compared to $6.66 in the UK. The US had one of the most expensive rates, with an average cost of $12.37 for the same amount of data. The global average came in at $8.53 for 1GB in the study, which compared mobile data pricing in 230 countries around the world.

"A country whose young population has a particularly high technological awareness, India offers a vibrant smartphone market, with strong adoption and many competitors. Data, therefore, is quite staggeringly cheap," Cable.co.uk notes in its research.

While India ($0.26) topped the scale of cheap mobile data, Kyrgyzstan ($0.27), Kazakstan ($0.49), Ukraine ($0.51) and Rwanda ($0.56) completed the top five countries offering the cheapest data packs.

"Despite a healthy UK marketplace, our study has uncovered that EU nations such as Finland, Poland, Denmark, Italy, Austria and France pay a fraction of what we pay in the UK for similar data usage. It will be interesting to see how our position is affected post-Brexit," said Dan Howdle, the website's telecom analyst.

The cheapest mobile data in Western Europe was found in Finland with an average price of $1.16 for 1GB of data. Denmark, Monaco and Italy all offer packages below $2. There were 15 countries in Western Europe which had cheaper prices than the UK, Cable found in its study.

In Eastern Europe, Poland is the cheapest at $1.32 per GB, followed by Romania ($1.89) and Slovenia ($2.21).

On the other end of the scale, Zimbabwe is the most expensive country in which to buy mobile data with an average cost of 1GB coming around $75.20. Asian nations make up half of the top 20 cheapest countries, with only Taiwan, China and South Korea charging more than the global average.

The research concluded that the reasons for the vast differences in prices around the world were complex.

"Some countries have excellent mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure and so providers are able to offer large amounts of data, which brings down the price per gigabyte. Others with less advanced broadband networks are heavily reliant on mobile data and the economy dictates that prices must be low, as that's what people can afford," explains Howdle.

"At the more expensive end of the list, we have countries where often the infrastructure isn't great but also where consumption is very small. People are often buying data packages of just tens of megabytes at a time, making a gigabyte a relatively large and therefore expensive amount of data to buy," he said.

The research looked at SIM-only deals and included a range of packages from all the providers in each country.

India offers some of the world's cheapest mobile data packs, with the US and UK logging among the highest prices, new research in the UK revealed on Tuesday. Price comparison site Cable.

India offers some of the world's cheapest mobile data packs, with the US and UK logging among the highest prices, new research in the UK revealed on Tuesday. Price comparison site Cable.co.uk found that 1 gigabyte (GB) of data cost $0.26 in India, compared to $6.66 in the UK. The US had one of the most expensive rates, with an average cost of $12.37 for the same amount of data. The global average came in at $8.53 for 1GB in the study, which compared mobile data pricing in 230 countries around the world. "A country whose young population has a particularly high technological awareness, India offers a vibrant smartphone market, with strong adoption and many competitors. Data, therefore, is quite staggeringly cheap," Cable.co.uk notes in its research. While India ($0.26) topped the scale of cheap mobile data, Kyrgyzstan ($0.27), Kazakstan ($0.49), Ukraine ($0.51) and Rwanda ($0.56) completed the top five countries offering the cheapest data packs. "Despite a healthy UK marketplace, our study has uncovered that EU nations such as Finland, Poland, Denmark, Italy, Austria and France pay a fraction of what we pay in the UK for similar data usage. It will be interesting to see how our position is affected post-Brexit," said Dan Howdle, the website's telecom analyst. The cheapest mobile data in Western Europe was found in Finland with an average price of $1.16 for 1GB of data. Denmark, Monaco and Italy all offer packages below $2. There were 15 countries in Western Europe which had cheaper prices than the UK, Cable found in its study. In Eastern Europe, Poland is the cheapest at $1.32 per GB, followed by Romania ($1.89) and Slovenia ($2.21). On the other end of the scale, Zimbabwe is the most expensive country in which to buy mobile data with an average cost of 1GB coming around $75.20. Asian nations make up half of the top 20 cheapest countries, with only Taiwan, China and South Korea charging more than the global average. The research concluded that the reasons for the vast differences in prices around the world were complex. "Some countries have excellent mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure and so providers are able to offer large amounts of data, which brings down the price per gigabyte. Others with less advanced broadband networks are heavily reliant on mobile data and the economy dictates that prices must be low, as that's what people can afford," explains Howdle. "At the more expensive end of the list, we have countries where often the infrastructure isn't great but also where consumption is very small. People are often buying data packages of just tens of megabytes at a time, making a gigabyte a relatively large and therefore expensive amount of data to buy," he said. The research looked at SIM-only deals and included a range of packages from all the providers in each country.

India gives world's cheapest mobile data packs, costliest in Zimbabwe: Study

Rescue workers retrieved 24 bodies and eight survivors Saturday from two flooded gold mines in Zimbabwe where officials fear dozens more illegal miners are still trapped, state television reported.

"Eight of the trapped minors have been rescued ... while 24 bodies have been retrieved to date as rescue efforts continue at Battlefields Mine," the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation reported.

The two disused mines are situated near the town of Kadoma, 145 kilometres (90 miles) southwest of the capital Harare.

The rescued received medical attention on site before being taken to the hospital, but were in a stable condition, the report added.

Television footage showed some of the men, in soaked, muddy clothes, being helped to a makeshift clinic.

In a clip posted on Twitter, one survivor told journalists that the waters had risen to neck level, forcing them to stand for days until it receded.

On Friday the government said that between 60 and 70 "artisanal" miners were trapped in two shafts.

It launched an appeal for $200,000 to be used "to pump out water, feeding the bereaved families and the (rescue) teams on the ground, transportation and burial of the victims", local minister July Moyo said in a statement.

"Given the magnitude of this disaster, we kindly appeal to individuals, development partners and the corporate world for assistance in cash and kind," he said.

Zimbabwe is in the throes of a deep economic crisis, the worst in a decade.

Annual inflation shot to 56.90 per cent up from 42.09 per cent in December 2018, according to official statistics released Friday, the highest increase in a decade. Economists say in reality prices have gone up more than three-fold in recent months.

Formal unemployment is estimated at over 90 per cent and artisanal gold mining, mostly in mines long abandoned by big corporates, is widespread providing a source of income for many.

Artisanal mining is not banned outright in Zimbabwe and is largely unregulated.

Rescue workers retrieved 24 bodies and eight survivors Saturday from two flooded gold mines in Zimbabwe where officials fear dozens more illegal miners are still trapped, state television reported.

Rescue workers retrieved 24 bodies and eight survivors Saturday from two flooded gold mines in Zimbabwe where officials fear dozens more illegal miners are still trapped, state television reported. "Eight of the trapped minors have been rescued ... while 24 bodies have been retrieved to date as rescue efforts continue at Battlefields Mine," the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation reported. The two disused mines are situated near the town of Kadoma, 145 kilometres (90 miles) southwest of the capital Harare. The rescued received medical attention on site before being taken to the hospital, but were in a stable condition, the report added. Television footage showed some of the men, in soaked, muddy clothes, being helped to a makeshift clinic. In a clip posted on Twitter, one survivor told journalists that the waters had risen to neck level, forcing them to stand for days until it receded. On Friday the government said that between 60 and 70 "artisanal" miners were trapped in two shafts. It launched an appeal for $200,000 to be used "to pump out water, feeding the bereaved families and the (rescue) teams on the ground, transportation and burial of the victims", local minister July Moyo said in a statement. "Given the magnitude of this disaster, we kindly appeal to individuals, development partners and the corporate world for assistance in cash and kind," he said. Zimbabwe is in the throes of a deep economic crisis, the worst in a decade. Annual inflation shot to 56.90 per cent up from 42.09 per cent in December 2018, according to official statistics released Friday, the highest increase in a decade. Economists say in reality prices have gone up more than three-fold in recent months. Formal unemployment is estimated at over 90 per cent and artisanal gold mining, mostly in mines long abandoned by big corporates, is widespread providing a source of income for many. Artisanal mining is not banned outright in Zimbabwe and is largely unregulated.

24 bodies retrieved from flooded Zimbabwe gold mine: Report

In pictures: The week that was

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwes-president-hikes-fuel-prices-to-tackle-shortages-190043&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjIx6OJrfffAhULTY8KHckxDfYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw25hwBThvhCEzx9_qjfJGUz">Zimbabwe</a> imposed a "total shutdown" of the internet on Friday, a major provider told customers, after protests early this week triggered a ruthless security crackdown.

The internet had been partially restored after a first shutdown started on Tuesday.

"We were served with another directive for a total shutdown of the internet until further notice," Econet, the country's biggest provider, said in a text message on Friday.

"Our lawyers advised we are required to comply with the directive pending the court decision on its legality. The earlier directive(s) are already the subject of pending high court application.

"We sincerely apologise for all inconveniences caused by the acts of government."

The EU on Thursday joined the US and Britain in criticising the authorities' response to the protests.

"The escalation of violence in Zimbabwe over recent days has been aggravated by the disproportionate use of force by security personnel," European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said in a statement.

"The<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blocks-pelosi-trip-as-tensions-mount-over-government-shutdown-191083&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjtjNGarfffAhWFuY8KHRdGDyYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1lO_iPmAvemXofAbp_y84Z"> shutdown</a> of access to the internet should also be reversed."

The US embassy in Harare it was "alarmed by credible reports that security forces are targeting and beating political activists and labour leaders".

Nationwide demonstrations erupted on Monday after President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced that fuel prices were being doubled in a country suffering regular shortages of fuel, food, and medicine.

Mnangagwa, who succeeded ousted authoritarian president Robert Mugabe in 2017, had promised a fresh start for Zimbabwe after decades of repression and economic decline.

Trade unions called the national strike on Monday and the demonstrations took place in several cities with widespread rioting and looting.

Security forces have made about 600 arrests.

Police and soldiers have been accused of indiscriminately dragging people from their homes and beating them.

 
&nbsp;

Zimbabwe imposed a "total shutdown" of the internet on Friday, a major provider told customers, after protests early this week triggered a ruthless security crackdown.

Zimbabwe imposed a "total shutdown" of the internet on Friday, a major provider told customers, after protests early this week triggered a ruthless security crackdown. The internet had been partially restored after a first shutdown started on Tuesday. "We were served with another directive for a total shutdown of the internet until further notice," Econet, the country's biggest provider, said in a text message on Friday. "Our lawyers advised we are required to comply with the directive pending the court decision on its legality. The earlier directive(s) are already the subject of pending high court application. "We sincerely apologise for all inconveniences caused by the acts of government." The EU on Thursday joined the US and Britain in criticising the authorities' response to the protests. "The escalation of violence in Zimbabwe over recent days has been aggravated by the disproportionate use of force by security personnel," European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said in a statement. "The shutdown of access to the internet should also be reversed." The US embassy in Harare it was "alarmed by credible reports that security forces are targeting and beating political activists and labour leaders". Nationwide demonstrations erupted on Monday after President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced that fuel prices were being doubled in a country suffering regular shortages of fuel, food, and medicine. Mnangagwa, who succeeded ousted authoritarian president Robert Mugabe in 2017, had promised a fresh start for Zimbabwe after decades of repression and economic decline. Trade unions called the national strike on Monday and the demonstrations took place in several cities with widespread rioting and looting. Security forces have made about 600 arrests. Police and soldiers have been accused of indiscriminately dragging people from their homes and beating them.

Total internet shutdown' in Zimbabwe: Provider

Zimbabweans reacted with outrage Sunday to a sharp rise in fuel prices announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in a move to improve supplies as the country struggles with its worst gasoline shortages in a decade.

After years of international isolation, Zimbabwe's economy has been in decline for more than a decade with cash shortages, high unemployment and a recent scarcity of basic staples like bread and cooking oil.

In a televised address late Saturday, Mnangagwa said prices of petrol and diesel would more than double to tackle a shortfall caused by increased demand and "rampant" illegal trading.

Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe and won a disputed election last July, also announced a package of measures to help state workers after strikes by doctors and teachers over poor pay.

He said from midnight Saturday, petrol prices would rise from $1.24 a litre to $3.31 (2.89 euros) and diesel from $1.36 a litre to $3.11.

But many Zimbabweans criticised the move, worrying a knock-on spike in other costs would worsen an already difficult economic situation and trigger protests and strikes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I am not a politician and neither am I an economist but you don't need a rocket scientist to tell you that we are now headed for the worst following the fuel price madness," said William Masuku, 32, a car dealer in Bulawayo, the country's second largest city.

Victor Nyoni, head of a local business body, said the fuel prices would push up the cost of other goods. Businesses are likely to pass on the higher transport costs to the consumer.

Government 'against the people'

The president's announcement came after fuel shortages which began in October last year worsened in recent weeks with motorists sometimes spending nights in fuel pump queues that stretch for kilometres.

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) said the government had demonstrated a lack of empathy for the already-overburdened poor.

"The government has officially declared its anti-worker, anti-poor and anti-people ideological position," it said. "Workers' salaries have been reduced to nothing and our suffering elevated to another level."

Nelson Chamisa, who heads the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) said the situation was "descending into a humanitarian crisis".

Evan Mawarire, a cleric and activist who led the 2016 anti-government protests that shut down major cities, said: "You have cornered us and you leave us no choice. It's time to mobilise every person who truly loves Zimbabwe."

'Piecemeal solutions'

"Those in government may not admit it but they know in their hearts that they have failed," said Edmore Phiri, a tired-looking motorist who had just spent a second night in a petrol queue in Avondale suburb.

"We are not going anywhere with these piecemeal solutions that are not solutions.&nbsp;

"You can’t have a country where people sleep in cars for days for a commodity that should be readily available."

Mnangagwa, who has pledged to revive the moribund economy, blamed the shortfall on increased fuel usage "compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities".

The government claims fuel prices were lower than in other regional countries, saying some foreigners were taking advantage and buying fuel in bulk for resale elsewhere.

Mnangagwa said the new measures were aimed at curbing a burgeoning speculative parallel market in which fuel was being sold at five times the official price.

"It's going to reduce demand for fuel because it's now a bit expensive and that will deal with speculative demand if it was there," said economist Godfrey Mugano.

Mnangagwa also warned the government would deal harshly with those "bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country".

Government doctors went on a 40-day strike in early December, demanding salaries in US dollars and improved working conditions, while teachers' unions called a strike this week for better pay but their calls went largely unheeded.

Although Mnangagwa announced a package of measures "to cushion government workers", he gave few details.

Despite the price hike, diplomats and tourists would be able to access cheaper fuel at certain pumping stations.

"The intention is to create a constant supply of fuel for diplomats and tourists to manage the country's image," said Mugano.&nbsp;

"Those designated fuel stations will be able to restock easily from the sales they make in US dollars."

After years in international isolation, Zimbabwe's economy has been on a downturn for more than a decade with cash shortages, high unemployment and recently a scarcity of basic staples like bread and cooking oil.

Zimbabweans reacted with outrage Sunday to a sharp rise in fuel prices announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in a move to improve supplies as the country struggles with its worst gasoline shortages in a decade. After years of international isolation, Zimbabwe's economy has been in decline for more than a decade with cash shortages, high unemployment and a recent scarcity of basic staples like bread and cooking oil. In a televised address late Saturday, Mnangagwa said prices of petrol and diesel would more than double to tackle a shortfall caused by increased demand and "rampant" illegal trading. Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe and won a disputed election last July, also announced a package of measures to help state workers after strikes by doctors and teachers over poor pay. He said from midnight Saturday, petrol prices would rise from $1.24 a litre to $3.31 (2.89 euros) and diesel from $1.36 a litre to $3.11. But many Zimbabweans criticised the move, worrying a knock-on spike in other costs would worsen an already difficult economic situation and trigger protests and strikes. "I am not a politician and neither am I an economist but you don't need a rocket scientist to tell you that we are now headed for the worst following the fuel price madness," said William Masuku, 32, a car dealer in Bulawayo, the country's second largest city. Victor Nyoni, head of a local business body, said the fuel prices would push up the cost of other goods. Businesses are likely to pass on the higher transport costs to the consumer. Government 'against the people' The president's announcement came after fuel shortages which began in October last year worsened in recent weeks with motorists sometimes spending nights in fuel pump queues that stretch for kilometres. The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) said the government had demonstrated a lack of empathy for the already-overburdened poor. "The government has officially declared its anti-worker, anti-poor and anti-people ideological position," it said. "Workers' salaries have been reduced to nothing and our suffering elevated to another level." Nelson Chamisa, who heads the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) said the situation was "descending into a humanitarian crisis". Evan Mawarire, a cleric and activist who led the 2016 anti-government protests that shut down major cities, said: "You have cornered us and you leave us no choice. It's time to mobilise every person who truly loves Zimbabwe." 'Piecemeal solutions' "Those in government may not admit it but they know in their hearts that they have failed," said Edmore Phiri, a tired-looking motorist who had just spent a second night in a petrol queue in Avondale suburb. "We are not going anywhere with these piecemeal solutions that are not solutions. "You can’t have a country where people sleep in cars for days for a commodity that should be readily available." Mnangagwa, who has pledged to revive the moribund economy, blamed the shortfall on increased fuel usage "compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities". The government claims fuel prices were lower than in other regional countries, saying some foreigners were taking advantage and buying fuel in bulk for resale elsewhere. Mnangagwa said the new measures were aimed at curbing a burgeoning speculative parallel market in which fuel was being sold at five times the official price. "It's going to reduce demand for fuel because it's now a bit expensive and that will deal with speculative demand if it was there," said economist Godfrey Mugano. Mnangagwa also warned the government would deal harshly with those "bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country". Government doctors went on a 40-day strike in early December, demanding salaries in US dollars and improved working conditions, while teachers' unions called a strike this week for better pay but their calls went largely unheeded. Although Mnangagwa announced a package of measures "to cushion government workers", he gave few details. Despite the price hike, diplomats and tourists would be able to access cheaper fuel at certain pumping stations. "The intention is to create a constant supply of fuel for diplomats and tourists to manage the country's image," said Mugano. "Those designated fuel stations will be able to restock easily from the sales they make in US dollars."

Anger as President Mnangagwa raises gas prices in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe will introduce a new currency in the next 12 months, the country's Finance Minister said, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-to-print-substitute-us-dollars-as-cash-runs-out-6377">a shortage of US&nbsp;dollars</a> plunges the financial system into disarray, forcing businesses to close and threatening unrest.

The southern African nation abandoned its own hyperinflation-wrecked currency in 2009 at the height of an economic recession, adopting the greenback and other currencies including sterling and the South African rand.

But without enough hard currency to back up the $10 billion of electronic funds trapped in local bank accounts, businesses and civil servants are demanding payment in cash which can be deposited and used to make payments both inside and outside the country.

Mthuli Ncube told a townhall meeting late on Friday that a new local currency would be introduced in less than twelve months.

"On the issue of raising enough foreign currency to introduce the new currency, we are on our way already, give us months, not years," he said.

Zimbabwe currently has less than two weeks import cover, according to central bank data, and the government has previously said it would only consider launching a new currency if it had at least six months of reserves.

Locals are haunted by memories of the Zimbabwean dollar, which became worthless as hyperinflation spiralled to reach 500 billion percent in 2008, the highest rate in the world for a country not at war, wiping out pensions and savings.

A surrogate bond note currency introduced in 2016 to stem dollar shortages has also collapsed in value.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is under pressure to revive the economy but, in something of a vicious circle, the dollar shortages are undermining efforts to win back foreign investors sidelined under his predecessor Robert Mugabe.

With less than $400 million in actual cash in Zimbabwe according to central bank figures, there are fuel shortages and companies are struggling to import raw materials and equipment, forcing them to buy greenback notes on the black market at a premium of up to 370 percent.

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries has warned some of its members could stop operating at the end of the month due to the dollar crunch.

Zimbabwe's iconic manufacturer of cooking oil and soap, Olivine Industries said on Saturday it had suspended production and put workers on indefinite leave because it owed foreign suppliers $11 million.

A local associate of global brewing giant Anheuser-Busch Inbev said this week it would invest more than $120 million of dividends and fees trapped in Zimbabwe into the central bank's savings bonds.

Zimbabwe will introduce a new currency in the next 12 months, the country's Finance Minister said, as a shortage of US dollars plunges the financial system into disarray, forcing businesses to close and threatening unrest.

Zimbabwe will introduce a new currency in the next 12 months, the country's Finance Minister said, as a shortage of US dollars plunges the financial system into disarray, forcing businesses to close and threatening unrest. The southern African nation abandoned its own hyperinflation-wrecked currency in 2009 at the height of an economic recession, adopting the greenback and other currencies including sterling and the South African rand. But without enough hard currency to back up the $10 billion of electronic funds trapped in local bank accounts, businesses and civil servants are demanding payment in cash which can be deposited and used to make payments both inside and outside the country. Mthuli Ncube told a townhall meeting late on Friday that a new local currency would be introduced in less than twelve months. "On the issue of raising enough foreign currency to introduce the new currency, we are on our way already, give us months, not years," he said. Zimbabwe currently has less than two weeks import cover, according to central bank data, and the government has previously said it would only consider launching a new currency if it had at least six months of reserves. Locals are haunted by memories of the Zimbabwean dollar, which became worthless as hyperinflation spiralled to reach 500 billion percent in 2008, the highest rate in the world for a country not at war, wiping out pensions and savings. A surrogate bond note currency introduced in 2016 to stem dollar shortages has also collapsed in value. President Emmerson Mnangagwa is under pressure to revive the economy but, in something of a vicious circle, the dollar shortages are undermining efforts to win back foreign investors sidelined under his predecessor Robert Mugabe. With less than $400 million in actual cash in Zimbabwe according to central bank figures, there are fuel shortages and companies are struggling to import raw materials and equipment, forcing them to buy greenback notes on the black market at a premium of up to 370 percent. The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries has warned some of its members could stop operating at the end of the month due to the dollar crunch. Zimbabwe's iconic manufacturer of cooking oil and soap, Olivine Industries said on Saturday it had suspended production and put workers on indefinite leave because it owed foreign suppliers $11 million. A local associate of global brewing giant Anheuser-Busch Inbev said this week it would invest more than $120 million of dividends and fees trapped in Zimbabwe into the central bank's savings bonds.

No US dollars, so Zimbabwe to introduce new currency

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday&nbsp;after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered Parliament.

The scuffles between opposition lawmakers and police started ahead of the budget speech, when the parliament speaker ordered police to remove members.

A video posted on social media by Open Parly ZW group shows police scuffling with lawmakers.

In September, opposition lawmakers walked out of Mnangagwa's state of the nation address to parliament, signalling their lingering bitterness after losing a disputed presidential and parliamentary election.

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered Parliament.

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered Parliament. The scuffles between opposition lawmakers and police started ahead of the budget speech, when the parliament speaker ordered police to remove members. A video posted on social media by Open Parly ZW group shows police scuffling with lawmakers. In September, opposition lawmakers walked out of Mnangagwa's state of the nation address to parliament, signalling their lingering bitterness after losing a disputed presidential and parliamentary election.

Watch: Police scuffle with Zimbabwean opposition MPs

WION Gravitas: Zimbabwe opposition MPs removed from parliament

Watch: WION Fineprint, 23rd November, 2018

Watch: WION Your Story, 23rd November, 2018

Zimbabwe opposition MPs removed from parliament after refusing to stand when president entered

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday (November 22) after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered parliament.

The scuffles between opposition lawmakers and police started ahead of the budget speech, when the parliament speaker ordered police to remove members.

A video posted on social media by Open Parly ZW group shows police scuffling with lawmakers.

In September, opposition lawmakers walked out of Mnangagwa's state of the nation address to parliament, signalling their lingering bitterness after losing a disputed presidential and parliamentary election.

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday (November 22) after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered parliament.

Zimbabwe police and parliament security ejected opposition legislators from parliament on Thursday (November 22) after they refused to stand when president Emmerson Mnangagwa entered parliament. The scuffles between opposition lawmakers and police started ahead of the budget speech, when the parliament speaker ordered police to remove members. A video posted on social media by Open Parly ZW group shows police scuffling with lawmakers. In September, opposition lawmakers walked out of Mnangagwa's state of the nation address to parliament, signalling their lingering bitterness after losing a disputed presidential and parliamentary election.

At least 42 passengers have been confirmed dead, Zimbabwe police said Friday, after a suspected gas tank exploded on a bus, with pictures showing the burnt-out wreckage of the vehicle.

"At the moment we know that more than 42 people died," police spokeswoman Charity Charamba told AFP after the accident late on Thursday, with state media reporting a gas tank belonging to a passenger was believed to have exploded.

"Our police officers are at the scene," Charamba added.

The state-owned Herald newspaper said on its Twitter feed that "it is suspected a gas tank belonging to one of the passengers caused the inferno in the bus.

"Dozens have been confirmed dead and several others injured through burns."

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation published photographs showing the destroyed vehicle on a highway from the South African border crossing to the second city Bulawayo.

Last week, 47 people were killed when two buses collided on a road between the capital Harare and the eastern town of Rusape.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa said road safety had to be improved after that crash.

Traffic accidents are common in Zimbabwe, where roads are riddled with potholes due to years of underfunding and neglect, and driving standards can be poor.&nbsp;

In June last year, 43 people were killed in a bus crash in the north, along the highway leading to neighbouring Zambia.

At least 42 passengers have been confirmed dead, Zimbabwe police said Friday, after a suspected gas tank exploded on a bus, with pictures showing the burnt-out wreckage of the vehicle.

At least 42 passengers have been confirmed dead, Zimbabwe police said Friday, after a suspected gas tank exploded on a bus, with pictures showing the burnt-out wreckage of the vehicle. "At the moment we know that more than 42 people died," police spokeswoman Charity Charamba told AFP after the accident late on Thursday, with state media reporting a gas tank belonging to a passenger was believed to have exploded. "Our police officers are at the scene," Charamba added. The state-owned Herald newspaper said on its Twitter feed that "it is suspected a gas tank belonging to one of the passengers caused the inferno in the bus. "Dozens have been confirmed dead and several others injured through burns." The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation published photographs showing the destroyed vehicle on a highway from the South African border crossing to the second city Bulawayo. Last week, 47 people were killed when two buses collided on a road between the capital Harare and the eastern town of Rusape. President Emmerson Mnangagwa said road safety had to be improved after that crash. Traffic accidents are common in Zimbabwe, where roads are riddled with potholes due to years of underfunding and neglect, and driving standards can be poor. In June last year, 43 people were killed in a bus crash in the north, along the highway leading to neighbouring Zambia.

At least 42 killed as bus catches fire in Zimbabwe: Police

Bangladesh defeated Zimbabwe by 218 runs in the second Test on Thursday, levelling the series 1-1 and denying the visitors their first series win in seven years.&nbsp;

Needing a mammoth 443 to win, Zimbabwe folded for 224 with Brendan Taylor making 106, providing some resistance with his second century of the match.&nbsp;

The home side declared the first innings on 522 for seven with Mushfiqur Rahim hitting an unbeaten 219 and then declared their second innings on 224 for six.&nbsp;

Zimbabwe were bowled out for 304 in the first innings with Brendan Taylor making 101 runs and Taijul Islam bagging five wickets for 107 runs.&nbsp;

Mehidy Hasan Miraz got five wickets for 38 in the second Zimbabwe innings.&nbsp;

Bangladesh defeated Zimbabwe by 218 runs in the second Test on Thursday, levelling the series 1-1 and denying the visitors their first series win in seven years.

Bangladesh defeated Zimbabwe by 218 runs in the second Test on Thursday, levelling the series 1-1 and denying the visitors their first series win in seven years. Needing a mammoth 443 to win, Zimbabwe folded for 224 with Brendan Taylor making 106, providing some resistance with his second century of the match. The home side declared the first innings on 522 for seven with Mushfiqur Rahim hitting an unbeaten 219 and then declared their second innings on 224 for six. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 304 in the first innings with Brendan Taylor making 101 runs and Taijul Islam bagging five wickets for 107 runs. Mehidy Hasan Miraz got five wickets for 38 in the second Zimbabwe innings.

2nd Test: Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 218 runs, level series

Bangladesh bowlers struck twice before lunch on the fifth and final day Thursday as Zimbabwe struggled to avoid defeat in the second Test.

The visitors reached 161 for 4 at the break at Sher-e-Bangla stadium with first innings century-maker Brendon Taylor and Peter Moor batting on 54 and 10 respectively.

Zimbabwe's hopes of securing a draw rests on the pair, whose 139-run sixth wicket stand in the first innings took the visitors past the 300 mark. If they stave off defeat,

Zimbabwe will claim their first Test series win in seven years.

Resuming at 76 for 2, Zimbabwe lost Sean Williams for 13 after pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman provided Bangladesh with the first breakthrough. Spinner Taijul Islam dismissed Sikandar Raza for 12 by taking a sharp return catch to reduce Zimbabwe to 120 for 4.

But Taylor and Moor saw their side through to the break with an unbeaten 41-run stand for the fifth wicket. Bangladesh need a win to square off series after going down by 151 runs in the first Test in Sylhet.

Bangladesh declared their second innings on 224 for six at the tea break Wednesday after skipper Mahmudullah Riyad completed his second century in eight years.

Zimbabwe had been all out for 304 in reply to Bangladesh's mammoth first innings of 522 for 7 declared.

Bangladesh bowlers struck twice before lunch on the fifth and final day Thursday as Zimbabwe struggled to avoid defeat in the second Test. The visitors reached 161 for 4 at the break at Sher-e-Bangla stadium with first innings century-maker Brendon Taylor and Peter Moor batting on 54 and 10 respectively.

Bangladesh bowlers struck twice before lunch on the fifth and final day Thursday as Zimbabwe struggled to avoid defeat in the second Test. The visitors reached 161 for 4 at the break at Sher-e-Bangla stadium with first innings century-maker Brendon Taylor and Peter Moor batting on 54 and 10 respectively. Zimbabwe's hopes of securing a draw rests on the pair, whose 139-run sixth wicket stand in the first innings took the visitors past the 300 mark. If they stave off defeat, Zimbabwe will claim their first Test series win in seven years. Resuming at 76 for 2, Zimbabwe lost Sean Williams for 13 after pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman provided Bangladesh with the first breakthrough. Spinner Taijul Islam dismissed Sikandar Raza for 12 by taking a sharp return catch to reduce Zimbabwe to 120 for 4. But Taylor and Moor saw their side through to the break with an unbeaten 41-run stand for the fifth wicket. Bangladesh need a win to square off series after going down by 151 runs in the first Test in Sylhet. Bangladesh declared their second innings on 224 for six at the tea break Wednesday after skipper Mahmudullah Riyad completed his second century in eight years. Zimbabwe had been all out for 304 in reply to Bangladesh's mammoth first innings of 522 for 7 declared.

2nd Test, day 5: Zimbabwe's Taylor fights but Bangladesh surges ahead

Mushfiqur Rahim continued to build on his overnight century as Bangladesh cemented their position in the second Test against Zimbabwe in Dhaka on Monday.

The home side, trailing 1-0 in the two Test series, reached 365 for 5 at lunch on the second day after resuming play on 303 for 5.

Mushfiqur, who was unbeaten on 111 overnight, was batting on 135 at the break alongside skipper Mahmudullah Riyad, 35 not out.

The pair added 66 runs in their unbroken sixth wicket stand after coming together in the penultimate over of the opening day.

Bangladesh began slowly on the second day, scoring just 22 runs in the first hour before Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah finally opened up.

Mushfiqur, who has now six Test centuries, took 56 balls to his first boundary in the morning.

Zimbabwe suffered a blow when fast bowler Tendai Chatara was stretchered off after damaging his hamstring while delivering a ball in the morning.

Zimbabwe Cricket in a Twitter message confirmed Chatara suffered a suspected Grade 2 quad muscle strain and was now out of the match.

Zimbabwe won the opening Test by 151 runs in Sylhet and were looking for their first series win in seven years.

Mushfiqur Rahim continued to build on his overnight century as Bangladesh cemented their position in the second Test against Zimbabwe in Dhaka on Monday. The home side, trailing 1-0 in the two Test series, reached 365 for 5 at lunch on the second day after resuming play on 303 for 5.

Mushfiqur Rahim continued to build on his overnight century as Bangladesh cemented their position in the second Test against Zimbabwe in Dhaka on Monday. The home side, trailing 1-0 in the two Test series, reached 365 for 5 at lunch on the second day after resuming play on 303 for 5. Mushfiqur, who was unbeaten on 111 overnight, was batting on 135 at the break alongside skipper Mahmudullah Riyad, 35 not out. The pair added 66 runs in their unbroken sixth wicket stand after coming together in the penultimate over of the opening day. Bangladesh began slowly on the second day, scoring just 22 runs in the first hour before Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah finally opened up. Mushfiqur, who has now six Test centuries, took 56 balls to his first boundary in the morning. Zimbabwe suffered a blow when fast bowler Tendai Chatara was stretchered off after damaging his hamstring while delivering a ball in the morning. Zimbabwe Cricket in a Twitter message confirmed Chatara suffered a suspected Grade 2 quad muscle strain and was now out of the match. Zimbabwe won the opening Test by 151 runs in Sylhet and were looking for their first series win in seven years.

Mushfiqur builds on century in second Zimbabwe Test

Bangladesh posted 207 runs for the loss of three wickets in 58 overs at tea during day one of their second and final Test match against Zimbabwe at Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka Sunday.

Mominul Haque was unbeaten on 115 while Mushfiqur Rahim was not out on 71.

Earlier, Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah won the toss and decided to bat first.&nbsp;

The Tigers made three changes from the Test in Sylhet, handing debuts to Mohammad Mithun and Khaled Ahmed and bringing in Mustafizur Rahman, in place of Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Nazmul Islam and Abu Jayed respectively.

Bangladesh Squad 
Playing XI: Liton Das, Imrul Kayes, Mominul Haque, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Ariful Haque, Mehidy Hasan, Taijul Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Khaled Ahmed&nbsp;

Bench: Shafiul Islam, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Abu Jayed, Nazmul Islam

Zimbabwe Squad 
Playing XI: Hamilton Masakadza (c), Brian Chari, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Peter Moor, Regis Chakabva (wk), Brandon Mavuta, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara&nbsp;

Bench: Chris Mpofu, Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl, John Nyumbu, Wellington Masakadza

Bangladesh posted 207 runs for the loss of three wickets in 58 overs at tea during day one of their second and final Test match against Zimbabwe at Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka Sunday.

Bangladesh posted 207 runs for the loss of three wickets in 58 overs at tea during day one of their second and final Test match against Zimbabwe at Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka Sunday. Mominul Haque was unbeaten on 115 while Mushfiqur Rahim was not out on 71. Earlier, Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah won the toss and decided to bat first. The Tigers made three changes from the Test in Sylhet, handing debuts to Mohammad Mithun and Khaled Ahmed and bringing in Mustafizur Rahman, in place of Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Nazmul Islam and Abu Jayed respectively. Bangladesh Squad Playing XI: Liton Das, Imrul Kayes, Mominul Haque, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Ariful Haque, Mehidy Hasan, Taijul Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Khaled Ahmed Bench: Shafiul Islam, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Abu Jayed, Nazmul Islam Zimbabwe Squad Playing XI: Hamilton Masakadza (c), Brian Chari, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Peter Moor, Regis Chakabva (wk), Brandon Mavuta, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara Bench: Chris Mpofu, Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl, John Nyumbu, Wellington Masakadza

2nd Test, Day 1: Bangladesh post 207/3 at tea

At least 47 people have died in a crash involving two buses near the Rusape tollgate in Zimbabwe, state broadcaster ZBC reported on Wednesday.

Video footage from the broadcaster showed various bodies scattered across the road at night, while emergency services and police tried to clear up the scene.

Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesman Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that 47 bodies have been identified and that two were minors, local media reported.

At least 47 people have died in a crash involving two buses near the Rusape tollgate in Zimbabwe, state broadcaster ZBC reported on Wednesday. Video footage from the broadcaster showed various bodies scattered across the road at night, while emergency services and police tried to clear up the scene.

At least 47 people have died in a crash involving two buses near the Rusape tollgate in Zimbabwe, state broadcaster ZBC reported on Wednesday. Video footage from the broadcaster showed various bodies scattered across the road at night, while emergency services and police tried to clear up the scene. Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesman Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that 47 bodies have been identified and that two were minors, local media reported.

Video: At least 47 dead as two buses collide in Zimbabwe, says report

Brandon Mavuta and Sikandar Raza shared seven wickets between them as Zimbabwe recorded their first Test win in five years with a thumping 151-run victory over Bangladesh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Debutant leg-spinner Mavuta claimed 4/21 and off-spinner Raza took 3/41 as hosts Bangladesh were left chasing 321 runs on the fourth day in the northeastern city of Sylhet.&nbsp;

Wellington Masakadza, another debutant, also shone with two wickets as Zimbabwe made quick work of Bangladesh's lower order, dismissing the hosts for 169.&nbsp;

Left-arm spinner Maskadza took the final wicket of the innings, sending Ariful Haque for 38 as Zimbabwe notched their first Test win since beating Pakistan in Harare in 2013.

It is also the first time Zimbabwe has clinched an away Test victory since beating Bangladesh in Chittagong 17 years ago in 2001.

"I am ecstatic. I thought the guys went out and worked really hard to apply themselves," Zimbabwe captain Hamilton Masakadza said in the post match presentation ceremony.

Zimbabwe sensed a win once Raza claimed three vital wickets in the opening session to reduce Bangladesh's innings to half.&nbsp;

Kyle Jarvis and Mavuta joined the act with Raza in the morning as they chipped in with a wicket apiece to leave Bangladesh 111-5 at the break.&nbsp;

Bangladesh resumed play on 26/0 but within half-an-hour had lost their first wicket, with others following quickly.

Play started 30 minutes early to make up for the lost time after bad light brought a premature end to day three, with Bangladesh still needing 295 runs on a wearing pitch.

The home side -- whose best run chase was 217-6 against the West Indies in 2009 -- started to throw wickets once Raza reviewed a leg-before appeal against opener Liton Das.

The umpire gave Liton not out but a TV replay indicated the ball would have hit the stump after pitching outside off -- ending Liton's innings on 23.

One down, Mominul Haque dragged a Jarvis delivery onto his stumps for nine before Raza bowled Imrul Kayes for 43 to leave Bangladesh at 83-3.

Skipper Mahmudullah promoted himself to number four but could not rescue his side and perished for 16, giving a catch to substitute fielder Craig Ervine at short leg off Raza.

Raza then took a spectacular catch at cover on the stroke of lunch to hand debutant Mavuta his maiden Test wicket and send back Nazmul Hossain.

"I think the wicket was good, but we didn't apply ourselves with the bat. We were not disciplined enough to restrict our strokes," said Bangladesh skipper Mahmudullah.

Mavuta dismissed Bangladesh's last accomplished batsman Mushfiqur Rahim soon after play resume before Zimbabwe wrapped things up.

The second Test will be held in Dhaka from November 11-15.

Brandon Mavuta and Sikandar Raza shared seven wickets between them as Zimbabwe recorded their first Test win in five years with a thumping 151-run victory over Bangladesh on Tuesday.

Brandon Mavuta and Sikandar Raza shared seven wickets between them as Zimbabwe recorded their first Test win in five years with a thumping 151-run victory over Bangladesh on Tuesday. Debutant leg-spinner Mavuta claimed 4/21 and off-spinner Raza took 3/41 as hosts Bangladesh were left chasing 321 runs on the fourth day in the northeastern city of Sylhet. Wellington Masakadza, another debutant, also shone with two wickets as Zimbabwe made quick work of Bangladesh's lower order, dismissing the hosts for 169. Left-arm spinner Maskadza took the final wicket of the innings, sending Ariful Haque for 38 as Zimbabwe notched their first Test win since beating Pakistan in Harare in 2013. It is also the first time Zimbabwe has clinched an away Test victory since beating Bangladesh in Chittagong 17 years ago in 2001. "I am ecstatic. I thought the guys went out and worked really hard to apply themselves," Zimbabwe captain Hamilton Masakadza said in the post match presentation ceremony. Zimbabwe sensed a win once Raza claimed three vital wickets in the opening session to reduce Bangladesh's innings to half. Kyle Jarvis and Mavuta joined the act with Raza in the morning as they chipped in with a wicket apiece to leave Bangladesh 111-5 at the break. Bangladesh resumed play on 26/0 but within half-an-hour had lost their first wicket, with others following quickly. Play started 30 minutes early to make up for the lost time after bad light brought a premature end to day three, with Bangladesh still needing 295 runs on a wearing pitch. The home side -- whose best run chase was 217-6 against the West Indies in 2009 -- started to throw wickets once Raza reviewed a leg-before appeal against opener Liton Das. The umpire gave Liton not out but a TV replay indicated the ball would have hit the stump after pitching outside off -- ending Liton's innings on 23. One down, Mominul Haque dragged a Jarvis delivery onto his stumps for nine before Raza bowled Imrul Kayes for 43 to leave Bangladesh at 83-3. Skipper Mahmudullah promoted himself to number four but could not rescue his side and perished for 16, giving a catch to substitute fielder Craig Ervine at short leg off Raza. Raza then took a spectacular catch at cover on the stroke of lunch to hand debutant Mavuta his maiden Test wicket and send back Nazmul Hossain. "I think the wicket was good, but we didn't apply ourselves with the bat. We were not disciplined enough to restrict our strokes," said Bangladesh skipper Mahmudullah. Mavuta dismissed Bangladesh's last accomplished batsman Mushfiqur Rahim soon after play resume before Zimbabwe wrapped things up. The second Test will be held in Dhaka from November 11-15.

Zimbabwe beat Bangladesh by 151 runs in first Test

By Stephen Chan 
 
The toxic presidency of Mugabe may be over, but the new Zimbabwean government of Emmerson Mnangagwa must quickly make some hard foreign policy decisions if it is to change the country’s fortunes. For so far no major foreign power has undertaken to relieve in any significant way the country’s economic distress. 
 
Although election observer reports have been guardedly and conditionally – almost grudgingly – accepting of the election results, the question marks raised and, particularly, the totally unnecessary violence unleashed against protesters in the wake of the election has made all governments shy of offering a full endorsement of the regime.

What this has meant is that foreign investor confidence, while not discouraged entirely, is very slow to assume the kind of mass and speed of movement the economy needs. The IMF has spoken of some negotiated relief, but only under a “reform package”. The Chinese also feel that they do not want to put good money after bad. Previous loans have not been repaid and, although rumours of seizing Zimbabwean institutional assets as collateral have been swiftly denied, it is no secret that the Chinese are not best pleased with Zimbabwe’s approach to fiscal responsibility.

Chinese influence 
 
The Zimbabweans seem not to have noticed that, increasingly, Chinese liquidity is made available through Chinese banks. They may or may not be state-owned – but it is not the state that makes a benefaction; it is a bank that makes a loan. And banks stay in business by realising the returns from a loan. As it is, liquidity has been either misused, misappropriated, or used simply to balance books that otherwise would be parlously unbalanced.

Although the Americans have lowered the tone of their criticisms of the government, the softly-softly approach cannot hide the strict conditionality they seek. This resides in guarantees of future electoral conduct, but also essentially the desecuritisation of the ZANU-PF machine. In a word, the problem is Constantino Chiwenga, the former defence forces chief, now vice-president, who has a strong influence within the military – but, no matter what the Americans want, he is going nowhere fast, and he will not sacrifice his deep influence within the military.

The Europeans have lifted the huge majority of their sanctions, but the outgoing European representative has been critical of both the election and the violence that followed. This leaves the British as a key player.

Catriona Laing, the British ambassador to Zimbabwe, is being promoted to the High Commissionership in Nigeria, and it is no secret she laid much of her prestige and credibility on the line in seeking to persuade Whitehall that Mnangagwa was a credible figure. This, of course, should be seen in the context that Grace Mugabe certainly was not. But it signals nevertheless that the days of British antipathy towards a ZANU-PF government have gone.

Laing’s successor as the new British ambassador will be, not a diplomatic figure with foreign office experience, but someone with huge experience in development assistance. Melanie Robinson will not be in the mould of Laing, nor of her predecessors, Deborah Bronnert and Mark Canning. She will need to be dealt with differently by the Zimbabwean government and the ZANU-PF apparatus. Whereas her predecessors were often perceived as political actors, Robinson is purely a development technocrat.

But, despite the obviously signalled change in emphasis, the British now have no money left to give. Brexit will compound that. All the British can do is throw their weight behind the IMF and encourage corporations to invest in Zimbabwe – but the British weight cannot, in itself, counteract US and EU reluctance to give a full green light to investment in Zimbabwe.

Russia would like to make some inroads in Zimbabwe, but has earmarked no sizeable funds for doing so.

All eyes on reform 
 
In short, almost everyone is looking towards reform. What happens domestically will impact the success or otherwise of foreign policy. As for foreign policy pure and proper, Zimbabwe has not been properly represented by top-flight ambassadors for some time. There had been only an acting Zimbabwean ambassador in the UK for almost three years, from 2015-18, and agreement to appoint a substantive ambassador was long delayed because the nominee, Ray Nahulukula, had received land seized from a white farmer. The finally agreed ambassador is Christian Katsande. The minister of lands, Perence Shiri, has now begun talking of some kind of compensation for white farmers who had lands seized, but no plans can be laid because there are no funds for compensation of any sort.

So it all comes down to money. The Mugabe years from 1997, when the economy began to tank, a process that was hurled into accelerated overdrive with the farm seizures in 2000, were years of mismanagement and accumulation without the reinvestment and circulation of capital. It was the era of the oligarchs. A lot of the funds that wound up at their disposal was used for consumption. If now these “fat cats” are somehow involved in foreign policy negotiations, particularly to do with economic and financial diplomacy, there will be no credibility on the Zimbabwean side.

I conclude with a story of one of my visits to Beijing some years ago. Chinese officials showed me their figures on the Zimbabwean economy. I looked at them and said, “So you know it’s a basket case?” “Yes,” was the reply. “But we continue to show solidarity.” But it is clear those days have now faded into memory. Fine words will now not be enough for diplomacy. Everyone wants actions. 
 
(Stephen Chan Professor of World Politics, SOAS, University of London)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/zimbabwe-troubled-nation-now-faces-tough-foreign-policy-choices-104279">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

By Stephen Chan The toxic presidency of Mugabe may be over, but the new Zimbabwean government of Emmerson Mnangagwa must quickly make some hard foreign policy decisions if it is to change the country’s fortunes.

By Stephen Chan The toxic presidency of Mugabe may be over, but the new Zimbabwean government of Emmerson Mnangagwa must quickly make some hard foreign policy decisions if it is to change the country’s fortunes. For so far no major foreign power has undertaken to relieve in any significant way the country’s economic distress. Although election observer reports have been guardedly and conditionally – almost grudgingly – accepting of the election results, the question marks raised and, particularly, the totally unnecessary violence unleashed against protesters in the wake of the election has made all governments shy of offering a full endorsement of the regime. What this has meant is that foreign investor confidence, while not discouraged entirely, is very slow to assume the kind of mass and speed of movement the economy needs. The IMF has spoken of some negotiated relief, but only under a “reform package”. The Chinese also feel that they do not want to put good money after bad. Previous loans have not been repaid and, although rumours of seizing Zimbabwean institutional assets as collateral have been swiftly denied, it is no secret that the Chinese are not best pleased with Zimbabwe’s approach to fiscal responsibility. Chinese influence The Zimbabweans seem not to have noticed that, increasingly, Chinese liquidity is made available through Chinese banks. They may or may not be state-owned – but it is not the state that makes a benefaction; it is a bank that makes a loan. And banks stay in business by realising the returns from a loan. As it is, liquidity has been either misused, misappropriated, or used simply to balance books that otherwise would be parlously unbalanced. Although the Americans have lowered the tone of their criticisms of the government, the softly-softly approach cannot hide the strict conditionality they seek. This resides in guarantees of future electoral conduct, but also essentially the desecuritisation of the ZANU-PF machine. In a word, the problem is Constantino Chiwenga, the former defence forces chief, now vice-president, who has a strong influence within the military – but, no matter what the Americans want, he is going nowhere fast, and he will not sacrifice his deep influence within the military. The Europeans have lifted the huge majority of their sanctions, but the outgoing European representative has been critical of both the election and the violence that followed. This leaves the British as a key player. Catriona Laing, the British ambassador to Zimbabwe, is being promoted to the High Commissionership in Nigeria, and it is no secret she laid much of her prestige and credibility on the line in seeking to persuade Whitehall that Mnangagwa was a credible figure. This, of course, should be seen in the context that Grace Mugabe certainly was not. But it signals nevertheless that the days of British antipathy towards a ZANU-PF government have gone. Laing’s successor as the new British ambassador will be, not a diplomatic figure with foreign office experience, but someone with huge experience in development assistance. Melanie Robinson will not be in the mould of Laing, nor of her predecessors, Deborah Bronnert and Mark Canning. She will need to be dealt with differently by the Zimbabwean government and the ZANU-PF apparatus. Whereas her predecessors were often perceived as political actors, Robinson is purely a development technocrat. But, despite the obviously signalled change in emphasis, the British now have no money left to give. Brexit will compound that. All the British can do is throw their weight behind the IMF and encourage corporations to invest in Zimbabwe – but the British weight cannot, in itself, counteract US and EU reluctance to give a full green light to investment in Zimbabwe. Russia would like to make some inroads in Zimbabwe, but has earmarked no sizeable funds for doing so. All eyes on reform In short, almost everyone is looking towards reform. What happens domestically will impact the success or otherwise of foreign policy. As for foreign policy pure and proper, Zimbabwe has not been properly represented by top-flight ambassadors for some time. There had been only an acting Zimbabwean ambassador in the UK for almost three years, from 2015-18, and agreement to appoint a substantive ambassador was long delayed because the nominee, Ray Nahulukula, had received land seized from a white farmer. The finally agreed ambassador is Christian Katsande. The minister of lands, Perence Shiri, has now begun talking of some kind of compensation for white farmers who had lands seized, but no plans can be laid because there are no funds for compensation of any sort. So it all comes down to money. The Mugabe years from 1997, when the economy began to tank, a process that was hurled into accelerated overdrive with the farm seizures in 2000, were years of mismanagement and accumulation without the reinvestment and circulation of capital. It was the era of the oligarchs. A lot of the funds that wound up at their disposal was used for consumption. If now these “fat cats” are somehow involved in foreign policy negotiations, particularly to do with economic and financial diplomacy, there will be no credibility on the Zimbabwean side. I conclude with a story of one of my visits to Beijing some years ago. Chinese officials showed me their figures on the Zimbabwean economy. I looked at them and said, “So you know it’s a basket case?” “Yes,” was the reply. “But we continue to show solidarity.” But it is clear those days have now faded into memory. Fine words will now not be enough for diplomacy. Everyone wants actions. (Stephen Chan Professor of World Politics, SOAS, University of London) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 Zimbabwe now faces tough foreign policy choices

At least 45 people have been killed by cholera in Zimbabwe in the past three weeks, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday, describing the strain as "multi-drug resistant".

It said that an oral vaccine campaign was due to begin shortly with 450,000 people targeted in the worst-affected suburbs of the capital Harare.

About 500,000 doses were due to arrive in the country on Wednesday for Zimbabwe's first oral vaccine campaign to combat the disease.

"A cumulative total of 6,428 suspected cases, 45 deaths, and 96 confirmed cases have been reported," a report by WHO and the health ministry said.

Almost all of the deaths have been in Harare, with one other in the eastern district of Makoni and another in the central city of Masvingo.

The report said Harare city council was fixing broken sewers after blocked and damaged pipes left sewage flowing on open ground in all affected areas.

Safe water is being trucked to residents, and police have banned the sale of street food, arresting vendors to try to prevent the epidemic from spreading.&nbsp;

Cholera outbreaks have occurred frequently in Zimbabwe's cities where safe drinking water and sanitation facilities are scarce.

In Harare, public gatherings have been banned and people discouraged from shaking hands.&nbsp;

Zimbabwe, which was ruled by Robert Mugabe from independence in 1980 until his ousting last year, suffered its worst cholera outbreak in 2008.

A total of 4,000 people died and at least 100,000 people fell ill.

At least 45 people have been killed by cholera in Zimbabwe in the past three weeks, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday, describing the strain as "multi-drug resistant".

At least 45 people have been killed by cholera in Zimbabwe in the past three weeks, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday, describing the strain as "multi-drug resistant". It said that an oral vaccine campaign was due to begin shortly with 450,000 people targeted in the worst-affected suburbs of the capital Harare. About 500,000 doses were due to arrive in the country on Wednesday for Zimbabwe's first oral vaccine campaign to combat the disease. "A cumulative total of 6,428 suspected cases, 45 deaths, and 96 confirmed cases have been reported," a report by WHO and the health ministry said. Almost all of the deaths have been in Harare, with one other in the eastern district of Makoni and another in the central city of Masvingo. The report said Harare city council was fixing broken sewers after blocked and damaged pipes left sewage flowing on open ground in all affected areas. Safe water is being trucked to residents, and police have banned the sale of street food, arresting vendors to try to prevent the epidemic from spreading. Cholera outbreaks have occurred frequently in Zimbabwe's cities where safe drinking water and sanitation facilities are scarce. In Harare, public gatherings have been banned and people discouraged from shaking hands. Zimbabwe, which was ruled by Robert Mugabe from independence in 1980 until his ousting last year, suffered its worst cholera outbreak in 2008. A total of 4,000 people died and at least 100,000 people fell ill.

Cholera death toll climbs to 45 in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe announced on Wednesday it would choose a new president and parliament on July 30, in the country's first electoral test since the removal of its autocratic former leader Robert Mugabe.

His successor, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, unveiled the date in the official Zimbabwe Government Gazette.

"Monday, the 30th day of July, 2018 (is) the day of the election to the office of President, the election of members of the National Assembly and election of councillors," Mnangagwa said in a proclamation.

Once a right-hand man to the 94-year-old Mugabe, Mnangagwa dramatically succeeded the veteran leader in November after nearly four-decades in charge when troops swarmed the streets and briefly seized key sites.

Mnangagwa, 75, will square off against the main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party, now led by 40-year-old Nelson Chamisa following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in February.

If no candidate receives a simple majority in the first round of the presidential election, a run-off will be held on September 8.

Elections under Mugabe were marred by corruption, intimidation and violence, but Mnangagwa has vowed to hold a free and fair vote.

The election will be the first to be monitored by Western observers in many years.

On Monday Harare and the European Union announced that observers from the bloc would monitor polls in the southern African country for the first time in 16 years.

The head of the last EU observer mission, Pierre Schori, was thrown out of Zimbabwe in 2002 on the eve of presidential elections that were condemned as flawed.

Following the high-profile spat, Zimbabwe barred the EU and other Western observers from sending further missions to monitor polls in the country as Mugabe grew more and more defiant of foreign criticism up until his downfall.

And in a further sign of Zimbabwe's growing efforts to mend fences with former foes following Mugabe's resignation, the country has applied to re-join the Commonwealth, the bloc of former British colonies said Monday.

Harare's membership was suspended in 2003 over the violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year.

Zimbabwe left the Commonwealth at the height of violent land seizures, when white farmers were evicted in favour of landless black people -- a policy that wrecked agriculture and triggered economic collapse.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland confirmed that the organisation would also send observers to the elections.

Mugabe sent shockwaves through the ruling ZANU-PF, the party he dominated for decades, when he recently posed with a retired general who will take on the government in this year's election.

Despite a slew of reformist pledges and announcements it is unclear whether Mnangagwa, who was a vital cog in the ZANU-PF party and helped Mugabe to hold onto power for 37 years, has won the support of ordinary Zimbabweans.

His successor, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, unveiled the date in the official Zimbabwe Government Gazette

Zimbabwe announced on Wednesday it would choose a new president and parliament on July 30, in the country's first electoral test since the removal of its autocratic former leader Robert Mugabe. His successor, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, unveiled the date in the official Zimbabwe Government Gazette. "Monday, the 30th day of July, 2018 (is) the day of the election to the office of President, the election of members of the National Assembly and election of councillors," Mnangagwa said in a proclamation. Once a right-hand man to the 94-year-old Mugabe, Mnangagwa dramatically succeeded the veteran leader in November after nearly four-decades in charge when troops swarmed the streets and briefly seized key sites. Mnangagwa, 75, will square off against the main opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party, now led by 40-year-old Nelson Chamisa following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in February. If no candidate receives a simple majority in the first round of the presidential election, a run-off will be held on September 8. Elections under Mugabe were marred by corruption, intimidation and violence, but Mnangagwa has vowed to hold a free and fair vote. The election will be the first to be monitored by Western observers in many years. On Monday Harare and the European Union announced that observers from the bloc would monitor polls in the southern African country for the first time in 16 years. The head of the last EU observer mission, Pierre Schori, was thrown out of Zimbabwe in 2002 on the eve of presidential elections that were condemned as flawed. Following the high-profile spat, Zimbabwe barred the EU and other Western observers from sending further missions to monitor polls in the country as Mugabe grew more and more defiant of foreign criticism up until his downfall. And in a further sign of Zimbabwe's growing efforts to mend fences with former foes following Mugabe's resignation, the country has applied to re-join the Commonwealth, the bloc of former British colonies said Monday. Harare's membership was suspended in 2003 over the violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year. Zimbabwe left the Commonwealth at the height of violent land seizures, when white farmers were evicted in favour of landless black people -- a policy that wrecked agriculture and triggered economic collapse. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland confirmed that the organisation would also send observers to the elections. Mugabe sent shockwaves through the ruling ZANU-PF, the party he dominated for decades, when he recently posed with a retired general who will take on the government in this year's election. Despite a slew of reformist pledges and announcements it is unclear whether Mnangagwa, who was a vital cog in the ZANU-PF party and helped Mugabe to hold onto power for 37 years, has won the support of ordinary Zimbabweans.

Zimbabwe to elect post-Mugabe president on July 30

Zimbabwe has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, the group said Monday, marking a major step in the country's international re-engagement after Robert Mugabe was ousted last year.

Mugabe angrily pulled Zimbabwe out of the bloc of former British colonies in 2003 after its membership was suspended over violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year.

The Commonwealth said it had received a letter dated May 15 from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa applying to re-join.

Member countries "very much look forward to Zimbabwe’s return when the conditions are right," said Secretary-General Patricia Scotland in a statement from London.

"Zimbabwe's eventual return to the Commonwealth, following a successful membership application, would be a momentous occasion."

Scotland confirmed that the Commonwealth would send observers to elections due in July or August, the first polls since Mugabe was ousted in November after a brief military takeover.

Mugabe was replaced by his former deputy Mnangagwa, a veteran ruling ZANU-PF party loyalist who was backed by senior military officers.

Mnangagwa has vowed to hold fair and free elections, and has pledged to revive the moribund economy by repairing international ties and attracting foreign investment.

Scotland called for "a credible, peaceful and inclusive (election) that restores citizens' confidence, trust and hope in the development and democratic trajectory of their country."

Britain said last month that it would strongly support Zimbabwe returning to the Commonwealth.

Zimbabwe had fractured relations with the West under Mugabe, who had held power since independence from Britain in 1980.

The government in Harare was not immediately available to comment.

The Commonwealth brings together 53 countries representing 2.4 billion people, under a charter pledging commitment to democracy, human rights and rule of law.

The last country to join was Rwanda, in 2009.

The organisation also holds an Olympics-style multi-sport event every four years, most recently in Australia's Gold Coast in April. 
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Mugabe angrily pulled Zimbabwe out of the bloc of former British colonies in 2003 after its membership was suspended over violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year

Zimbabwe has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, the group said Monday, marking a major step in the country's international re-engagement after Robert Mugabe was ousted last year. Mugabe angrily pulled Zimbabwe out of the bloc of former British colonies in 2003 after its membership was suspended over violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year. The Commonwealth said it had received a letter dated May 15 from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa applying to re-join. Member countries "very much look forward to Zimbabwe’s return when the conditions are right," said Secretary-General Patricia Scotland in a statement from London. "Zimbabwe's eventual return to the Commonwealth, following a successful membership application, would be a momentous occasion." Scotland confirmed that the Commonwealth would send observers to elections due in July or August, the first polls since Mugabe was ousted in November after a brief military takeover. Mugabe was replaced by his former deputy Mnangagwa, a veteran ruling ZANU-PF party loyalist who was backed by senior military officers. Mnangagwa has vowed to hold fair and free elections, and has pledged to revive the moribund economy by repairing international ties and attracting foreign investment. Scotland called for "a credible, peaceful and inclusive (election) that restores citizens' confidence, trust and hope in the development and democratic trajectory of their country." Britain said last month that it would strongly support Zimbabwe returning to the Commonwealth. Zimbabwe had fractured relations with the West under Mugabe, who had held power since independence from Britain in 1980. The government in Harare was not immediately available to comment. The Commonwealth brings together 53 countries representing 2.4 billion people, under a charter pledging commitment to democracy, human rights and rule of law. The last country to join was Rwanda, in 2009. The organisation also holds an Olympics-style multi-sport event every four years, most recently in Australia's Gold Coast in April.

Zimbabwe applies to rejoin Commonwealth

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