Zimbabwe

LATEST: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Arrested Again

admin — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 15:40:01 +0000

LATEST: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Arrested Again admin Mon, 12/14/2020 - 15:40

Monday, December 14, 2020

Original Publisher

NewZimbabwe.com

Original Article

LATEST: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Arrested Again

By Mary Taruvinga

EMBATTLED Harare mayor, Jacob Mafume has been arrested again.

He was picked up by Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) officers at Rottenrow magistrates court where he was appearing for his routine remand over a matter he was arrested for before.

His lawyer, Tonderai Bhatasara has confirmed the fresh development.

“Yes, the mayor has been arrested. No charge has been preferred against him as yet. However, the officers are trying to put together a charge of interfering with a witness in his case. More details will be available later,” Bhatsara told NewZimbabwe.com.

The mayor’s arrest comes a week after he was granted $30 000 bail by High Court judge Benjamin Chikowero on a charge of abusing his office as a public officer.

It is the state’s case that he forced officials at Harare City Council to give his sister and a colleague residential stands in Harare’s Westlea suburb.

He denies the allegations and is yet to stand trial.

Mafume was granted bail after appealing against Harare magistrate Bianca Makwande’s denial of his bail request.

The magistrate had said he had propensity to interfere with witnesses considering that he held the highest office.

The post LATEST: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Arrested Again appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.

Zimbabwe

Africa

News

Comments

Article Comment 1

reply to article comment 1

Article Comment 2

Current Economic Recession: Impact on Market Supplies and Demand

admin — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 13:10:02 +0000

Current Economic Recession: Impact on Market Supplies and Demand admin Tue, 10/13/2020 - 13:10

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Original Publisher

The Zimbabwe Independent

Original Article

Current Economic Recession: Impact on Market Supplies and Demand

Businesses have been struggling worse than ever and the pandemic had a rippling effect on the global economy. Whether there were big guns or small businesses, all are going through tough times to generate profits for themselves, and even preventing losses has been an immense task. Due to this business lockdown situation and travel bans millions of people are laid off from their jobs posing a serious existential threat to economies around the world.

Businesses do all kinds of forecasting to try to maintain that equilibrium between supplies and demand. If anything goes out of order, it has a direct impact on the economy of a region. If the affected industry exists on a large scale, the compound effect is seen in the global economy.

The prime example of this is the recent price trend of oil where it fell to negative due to such extraordinary reduction in demand. This is the rippling effect on supplies and commodity pricing when demand ceases. In recent months, the demand for all major products and services had to see a downfall, and factories weren’t even to operate even due to pandemic fears.

With both the demand and supply cycles disturbed, the economic recession has been experienced worldwide. The effects of this recession are termed greater than the one that occurred in 2009. Trade wars between the world powers are also making matters even worse and the recovery mode is being delayed.

Masses who were always made to believe that their jobs are here to stay forever or governments will always come to their rescue in case of an economic or public health disaster, they have found themselves fooled during all these times. It was just a matter of time where big guns started laying off people or made a reduction in the salaries to accommodate themselves only to the best of their powers.

This had a severe impact on the buying power of people and caused a change in lifestyle preferences too. They are now more rigorously thinking of working towards self-sustainability models and ensure they survive the next crisis without much financial disorder for themselves.

What Lies Ahead?

Well, with the ones who have always been the action takers, they are in a desperate mood to put themselves in the driving seat. With too much impact of political uncertainty and other factors on traditional ways of earning money, there is a dire need to adapt to new ways of thinking.

Firstly, we need to cancel the mindset of the luxury lifestyle until it becomes affordable. There has to be some portion of savings periodically that needs to come to your rescue during bad times. We need to stop falling into the trap of luxurious lifestyles as posed by some social media influencers. Each individual needs to rethink his budgeting and expenses to attain financial stability.

Secondly, we need to adapt to new technologies and innovative ways of doing trading and business. The virtual economy is now a force on its own and people are leveraged exponential growth opportunities with bitcoin up automating the trading activities. In this digital world, there are extraordinary innovative ways of making extra money while continuing with the day job, people need to look forward to this to address their budgeting issues.

Fortunately, business lockdowns are almost lifted with precautionary measures in place. The recovery mode has started a bit and it is never too late to take any action for your personal growth. Hopefully, it will just be a limited period of struggle before stuff gets back on track.

The post Current Economic Recession: Impact on Market Supplies and Demand appeared first on The Zimbabwe Independent.

Zimbabwe

Africa

FBC Bank Launches Noku, Digital Banking Assistant on Whatsapp

admin — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 11:10:01 +0000

FBC Bank Launches Noku, Digital Banking Assistant on Whatsapp admin Mon, 10/05/2020 - 11:10

Monday, October 5, 2020

Original Publisher

The Zimbabwe Independent

Original Article

FBC Bank Launches Noku, Digital Banking Assistant on Whatsapp

FBC Bank has announced the launch of Noku, a smart Digital Assistant who has been equipped with the capability of assisting clients with executing banking and insurance services on Whatsapp at any time of the day…24/7. Noku also allows anyone to open an FBC Instant Account or Mobile Moola wallet on WhatsApp without visiting a physical branch.

Existing FBC account-holders who are registered for Mobile Moola can start banking with Noku on Whatsapp by aving the number 0776 670 211 on their smartphones as a phone contact. Once Noku’s contact is saved ,one can
initiate a conversation with Noku in the same way they do when chatting with a friend or relative on whatsapp. One can start the conversation with Noku with any greeting message of their choice such as ‘Greetings’, ‘Hi’, ‘Whatsapp’, Etaa’, ‘Maswera sei?’ or ‘Ndeipi’ to start banking or insuring with Noku.
Noku, can serve clients with the following services:

Banking

Balance Enquiry
Mini Statement
Bill Payments
Internal Transfers
Zipit to Other Banks
Zipit to Cell
Mobile Banking Pin change
Block Card Functionality
Beneficiary Management
Insurance Services
Third party insurance
Third party and Zinara licence
Zinara licence only

Announcing the development, Roy Nyakunuwa(Acting Head- FBC Group
Marketing) said, “ FBC Bank is dedicated towards supporting sustainable
digital processes and creative innovations for driving the delivery of superb
service across click-only or digital banking channels. The bank takes pride in
utilising state-of-the art banking systems to offer exceptionally convenient
services to our valued clients. It is against this background that we have seen it
fit to develop Noku which is our gift to FBC Clients in line with our new
promise … You Matter Most ”
“ Noku is an extension of our mobile financal platform which is available on
the (*220#) platform. We launched Noku with a crystal-clear objective of
improving customer experience by allowing clients to transact on
Whatsapp. Noku enables customers to make use of the familiar Whatsapp
chat, which is more interactive and personal” added Roy Nyakunuwa.
FBC clients will enjoy the following benefits when banking or insuring with
Noku:
Instant access to banking and insurance services without the need to
visit a physical branch.
No need to download an additional application, client can use the
everyday chat messenger (WhatsApp)
Providing Banking Services on the preferred channel
Whatsapp is a cost effective communication channel
Can be used using social media bundles, Wi-Fi, and mobile data
Customer focused user experience
24/7 availability

FBC is a diversified and innovative financial services provider using technology to offer top-notch financial services to he market. The institution has driven simplicity by automating the account opening process for everyone
using a popular and user-friendly platform such as Whatsapp.

Issued on 17 September 2020

Roy Nyakunuwa- Acting Head of FBC Group Marketing
Group Marketing Division
FBC Centre, 45 Nelson Mandela Avenue
Harare, Zimbabwe
Phone : +263 242 707057/704608/783206
Cell : +263 731 306 861
Email : public.relations@fbc.co.zw
Website : www.fbc.co.zw

The post FBC Bank Launches Noku, Digital Banking Assistant on Whatsapp appeared first on The Zimbabwe Independent.

Zimbabwe

Africa

Zambia vice president tests positive for Covid-19

admin — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 15:09:05 +0000

Zambia vice president tests positive for Covid-19 admin Fri, 08/21/2020 - 15:09

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Original Publisher

NewZimbabwe.com

Original Article

Zambia vice president tests positive for Covid-19

By Staff Reporter

ZAMBIA’s vice president Inonge Mutukwa has tested positive for coronavirus.
This was revealed in a tweet by President Edgar Lungu who wished his deputy good health.
“I have wished Her Honour the Republican Vice President Mrs Inonge Mutukwa Wina a quick recovery after she tested positive for #Covid_19 following a positive result of her daughter with whom she stays with,” Lungu said.
The 79-year-old politician’s condition was however said to be stable and she was recovering from home.

The post Zambia vice president tests positive for Covid-19 appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.

Zimbabwe

Africa

News

Government collects Sh8.6 trillion through NMB Bank

admin — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:00:01 +0000

Government collects Sh8.6 trillion through NMB Bank

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__12840.jpg

admin Tue, 06/13/2023 - 08:00

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Original Publisher

The Citizen

Original Article

Government collects Sh8.6 trillion through NMB Bank

Summary

NMB through its highly innovative financial solutions diligently serves the local authorities, central government and the whole country at large.

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

Show plans

Arusha. NMB Bank Plc said yesterday it has enabled the government to collect billions of shillings through its several digital finance channels with the government.

The publicly listed company is the first lender in the country to connect its systems to the government electronic payment gateway (GePG).

"Through several digital finance channels the government managed to collect revenues amounting to Sh8.6 trillion in two years from 2019,” said Alfred Shao, the bank's Chief of Wholesale Banking.

Government collects Sh6 trillion through NMB Bank

According to him, the collections through the GePG were facilitated by the recently introduced digital solutions such as NMB Mkononi, NMB Wakala and internet banking..

He revealed this when he announced the lender's Sh200 million sponsorship package to the 37th congress of the Association of Local Government Authorities Tanzania (ALAT) starting here today.

“It is through this top-notch creativity and technological investments that made us the first bank to connect our systems to the GePG and so far over 1,100 entities interact with the NMB digital revenue collection platforms,” he said.

He added that NMB through its highly innovative financial solutions diligently serves the local authorities, central government and the whole country at large.

The service has excelled most in that it led to increased collections of revenues from multiple-revenue generating sources..

Mr Shao added that the digital solutions applied have not only eased tax remittances to national coffers but also greatly helped to improve collection of the requisite taxes.

The bank has pledged to work closely with local government authorities and that this includes sponsoring its annual meetings.

This is the seventh time the bank is sponsoring the ALAT's annual general meeting, making a total of Sh.1.2 billion worth of sponsorship for all those years.

“We have been partners with ALAT in many national development endeavours for over seven years now and that’s why we also readily concurred to sponsor this year’s AGM when they sought our support.

“However, of utmost importance today is the announcement of our Sh.200 million sponsorship to help the organisation of this year’s congress,” he explained.

ALAT is made up of 184 local authorities and needs the money to finance construction and maintenance of a host of social services such as education, health,road and environment projects.

The key agenda of this year’s ALAT congress to last for three days is how improve infrastructure for better service delivery in local government territories in both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

ALAT vice chair Sima Costantine Sima said the lobby highly regards its commercial and developmental ties with NMB Bank, which have not only benefited the two organisations but also delivered immense value to the people they serve.

It's the content that counts

We come to you. We are always looking for ways to improve our stories. Let us know what you liked and what we can improve on.

I've got feedback!

Africa

News

Gains of Tanzania, India local currency trading

admin — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:00:01 +0000

Gains of Tanzania, India local currency trading

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__12839.jpg

admin Tue, 06/13/2023 - 07:00

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Original Publisher

The Citizen

Original Article

Gains of Tanzania, India local currency trading

Summary

To trade under this mechanism, Tanzanian banks will have to open SRVA in India by approaching authorised Indian banks that will, in turn, approach RBI for their approval with details of the arrangement, the statement further stated.

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

Show plans

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and India can minimise reliance on major global currencies and foster stable and efficient trading environment by promoting trade in local currencies, stakeholders have said.

The stakeholders gathered in Tanzania recently for a consultation meeting organised by the Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants.

They discussed the implications of the Rupee Nostro Account System, following the recent announcement of both countries to commence trading in their respective local currencies.

How Tanzania trades with world's leading economies

One of the key advantages highlighted during the discussion was the reduction in dependency on hard currencies.

Stakeholders were upbeat that the system would alleviate the need for constant currency conversions and reliance on foreign exchange reserves.

Managing director of Bank of India in Tanzania, Mr Antaryami Sarangi, said the system offers immense potential for business entities, which can effectively manage their forex balances and mitigate exchange risks associated with volatile global currencies.

“The banking sector also stands to gain from implementing this system. Banks could facilitate importers by providing them with increased flexibility and reduced dependencies on hard currencies.

“This would streamline trade processes and enhance the overall efficiency of cross-border transactions,” he said.

Managing director of Bank of Baroda, Mr Aditya Narayan Singh, said the arrangment is likely to contribute to lower transaction costs, which would be beneficial to businesses of all sizes.

“By eliminating the need for constant currency conversions, settlement times can be significantly reduced and yield lower transaction costs,” he said.

Indian Deputy High Commissioner, Mr Shri Manoj Verma, expressed optimism on the prospects for the Rupee Nostro Account System and its potential in deepening economic ties between Tanzania and India.

“It will encourage trade partners to buy more goods and services from each other, thus giving incentive to domestic industry and exporters and generating employment and income,” he said.

Mr Verma said this could create an opportunity for local banks and businesses to enjoy payment transactions in domestic currencies.

In a press release posted on its website, the Indian High Commission in Dar es Salaam said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had cleared the way for trade using local currencies by allowing authorised banks in India to open Special Rupee Vestro Accounts (SRVA) in Tanzania.

To trade under this mechanism, Tanzanian banks will have to open SRVA in India by approaching authorised Indian banks that will, in turn, approach RBI for their approval with details of the arrangement, the statement further stated.

“Tanzania can conserve foreign exchange, and boost bilateral trade,” he said.

India and Tanzania have bilateral trade currently valued at nearly $4.5 billion, during an interview with The Citizen Indian High Commissioner to Tanzania Binaya Pradhan revealed that at the end of 2023, the trade volume is expected to cross $6 billion.

The Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) was formally inaugurated on January 13th, 2015 as the 26th overseas chapter of ICAI.

The Chapter conducts CPE programmes as per ICAI regulations and provides facilities for interaction amongst members by holding regular meetings and organising talks and lectures of professional interest and operates principally in Dar city.

The chapter has also signed and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Board of Accountants and Auditors (NBAA)Tanzania in September 2018, where as a part of MoU Implementation, they assisted NBAA is reviewing their syllabus and course contents with ICAI New Delhi.

It's the content that counts

We come to you. We are always looking for ways to improve our stories. Let us know what you liked and what we can improve on.

Africa

News

A sour taste creeps into Kenyan tea

admin — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 07:00:01 +0000

A sour taste creeps into Kenyan tea

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__12832.jpg

admin Mon, 06/12/2023 - 07:00

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Original Publisher

The Citizen

Original Article

A sour taste creeps into Kenyan tea

Summary

East Africa seems to be in the early beginnings of militant contestation over natural resources.

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

Show plans

This week, Dutch multinational Ekaterra Tea Company suspended its operations in Kericho, Kenya’s South Rift region, after militant residents invaded two of its estates and burnt mechanical tea pickers, harvesters and a tractor.

The company said its 16,000 employees would only report to work once the security situation is stabilised.

The Daily Nation reported that large tea producers in Kericho, Bomet, Nyamira and Nandi counties would also scale down their operations until adequate security measures were in place.

It quoted Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA) chairman Silas Njibwakale as saying darkly that there had been a notable escalation in insecurity in the tea estates with the breakdown of law and order severely disrupting business operations, thus hampering the growth of the tea sector.

“What started in October 2022 with daylight raids and theft of tea leaves and machinery has now escalated to organised attacks on business premises and deliberate destruction of critical assets,” said Mr Njibwakale.

Police officers have been seriously injured in recent months as they dispersed residents who invaded the estates of Ekaterra and another multinational, James Finlay’s, to steal green leaves. Kericho Governor Erick Mutai’s motorcade was pelted with stones when he intervened.

Politicians have been accused of inciting Kericho residents against the massive tea plantations during last year’s election campaigns with promises that they would help them to reclaim some of the lands. However, the crisis was fully on show 15 years ago, during the post-election violence (PEV) that followed the disputed December 2007 elections in which 1,400 people were killed and 350,000 displaced.

At that time, the more dry-eyed analysts, storytellers and documentary makers who studied the wreckage of the violence, which was mostly concentrated in the Rift Valley, partly blamed it on the tea plantations. They said the plantations had so much land, acquired in the colonial and immediate post-independence periods, leaving the local people “packed like sardines in ghettos” in dry patches of land.

Local militancy

With the increasing population, combined with the deterioration in the environment, they warned of local militancy that would seek to seize tea plantations for the people’s livelihood and bring with it levels of pillage way beyond what was witnessed by the tea firms during the PEV.

The government, and the national economy, are now caught between a rock and a hard place. Expropriating the plantations might be good for short-term electoral politics but disastrous economically. Indeed, Njibwakale said, “We appeal to the President (Dr Ruto) to intervene and restore order, protect local and foreign investments and avoid a situation where Kenya loses its international tea market niche.”

Times have changed. In the aftermath of Covid-19 and the squeeze brought by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, economies squeezed by high dollar interest rates, and mounting debt, many developing countries are desperate and offering foreign investors incredible sweetheart deals.

Njibwakale spoke in the company of Slyvia Ten Den, the Ekaterra managing director for Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. She would have been aware that Rwanda, and President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s Tanzania, would gladly snap up Ekaterra at the first chance, not to mention Uganda.

Yet, in some of these countries, they too will be aware that the politics of land has become more fraught. President Hassan’s government just concluded negotiations with an energy consortium for a $40 billion liquefied natural gas export project.

The project had been delayed by the John Magufuli government and was pulled back on its feet after he died in 2021. However, even in famed “peace-loving” Tanzania, the government will deploy the army to guard the LNG project. Uganda has deployed thousands of troops to guard its 1,443-kilometre crude oil pipeline being built to the Tanzanian port of Tanga.

East Africa seems to be in the early beginnings of militant contestation over natural resources (minerals, land, fish) that, in Nigeria, saw extensive sabotage of the crude oil pipelines by saboteurs, rebel groups and locals stealing the oil to process in bush refineries and sell to the local markets.

The process is more advanced in Kenya, where a version of it has been witnessed in the farm invasions in Laikipia (mostly owned by white folks). Zimbabwe, during President Robert Mugabe’s rule, had a violent seizure of white-owned farms.

In Zimbabwe, it was not the fairytale ending that nationalists had hoped for. The farms collapsed in the people’s hands and its agriculture cratered. The backlash on world financial markets was brutal. A cash-strapped Zimbabwe has been borrowing and scrapping together billions of dollars to compensate the white farmers.

It’s hard to see how this ends in a win-win for everyone. Maybe technology could come to the rescue. It is possible to produce higher-yield tea, on smaller land parcels, with chunks freed for redistribution to the people. But that might be one of those things that are easier said than done.

Africa

News

Ghana UK community showcase rich culture in traditional leaders durbar

admin — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 08:00:01 +0000

Ghana UK community showcase rich culture in traditional leaders durbar

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__12629.jpg

admin Mon, 06/20/2022 - 08:00

Saturday, May 28, 2022

Original Publisher

Diaspora Archives - NewZimbabwe.com

Original Article

Ghana UK community showcase rich culture in traditional leaders durbar

By Paidashe Mandivengerei

THE Ghanaian community in the UK will on May 28 commemorate their home country’s 65th independence anniversary with a traditional durbar of chiefs and queens.

The event dubbed ’65th Ghana Independence Anniversary Special Edition: Traditional Durbar of Chiefs and Queens’ will be held at Broadwater Farm Community Centre, Adams Road in London.

Ghana Society UK, Ghana Union UK is organising the commemorations supported by Ghana High Commission UK and sponsored by Diaspora Insurance.

Guests will be treated to Ghanaian cuisines, drinks and rich traditional poetry, choral songs, African Saxo Jazz and acrobatic displays.

The event will be divided into two segments, a seminar on traditional leadership at 1500 hours and a royal unity durbar at 1700 hours which will offer insights into Ghana’s culture and heritage.

In an interview, Ghana Union UK president, Emmanuel Quayson said the traditional durbar is part of the association’s effort to preserve their culture while living abroad.

“Showcasing our rich Ghanaian culture, traditions and heritage as key to building strong links among our children, families, and friends for generations.

“As such, this durbar and the outdooring of our traditional rulers on Saturday 28th May 2022 is among other things, the beginning of the Ghana Union’s efforts towards showcasing, promoting, and maintaining Ghana’s unique and rich cultural identity in the diaspora.”

The post Ghana UK community showcase rich culture in traditional leaders durbar appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.

Diaspora

News

CHINA: Zim medicine student savours freedom, diversity in Xinjiang

admin — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 08:00:01 +0000

CHINA: Zim medicine student savours freedom, diversity in Xinjiang

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__1359.png

admin Mon, 06/20/2022 - 08:00

Saturday, May 28, 2022

Original Publisher

Diaspora Archives - NewZimbabwe.com

Original Article

CHINA: Zim medicine student savours freedom, diversity in Xinjiang

By Xinhua

Zimbabwean student George Tabengwa has been studying medicine in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for about four years, and one thing has remained constant during that time.

“My first impression of Xinjiang is also the lasting impression: a safe, free, beautiful and diverse place,” said the 24-year-old.

Now a senior student at Xinjiang Medical University in Urumqi, the regional capital, Tabengwa began his ties with Xinjiang in 2018. He obtained a full scholarship to study clinical medicine at the university after completing preparatory courses in China’s Shandong Province.

He knew little about Xinjiang at that time, aside from some sensational reports from Western news organizations. “After I came to Xinjiang, I found that these reports are untrue,” he said.

“I didn’t see any problems here. The place is safe. Everyone is free to do what they want to do,” said Tabengwa. “I also enjoy my studies and life here, including diverse cultures and easy access to different kinds of food.”

Among the key attractions for the student is the region’s ethnic and cultural diversity.

“My classmates come from different ethnic groups in China. They often teach me to speak their dialects and we have much fun together,” Tabengwa said.

Tabengwa feels that the people of Xinjiang are united in working for a better life. “It’s a very fair place,” he said. “If you work hard and are diligent, you’re definitely going to get your opportunity and become successful.”

The Zimbabwean student has visited many places in Xinjiang and now considers himself a Xinjiang local. “We foreign students are free to visit any city,” he said. “I have been to places like Korla, Turpan and Hotan. I rode a camel in Turpan for the first time in my life, which was a really unforgettable experience.”

Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, several foreign students in the university have returned to their home countries, but Tabengwa chose to stay.

“My family also wanted me to leave, but I didn’t want to risk my studies,” said Tabengwa. “The result proved I made the right decision. Everything is going well so far, and I haven’t experienced any disruption to my studies.”

He said that his family now knows a lot about Xinjiang. “I often tell them of my experiences here and they love the place as much as I do. My siblings hope to come to Xinjiang or other Chinese regions to study if they get the opportunity.”

As for his future plans, Tabengwa said he is due to start his internship at a local hospital in September.

“I’m also planning to apply for a master’s degree in neurosurgery or cardiothoracic surgery in China,” he said. “I would like to stay here longer.”

The post CHINA: Zim medicine student savours freedom, diversity in Xinjiang appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.

Diaspora

News

UK: Zimbabwe Midwives and Nurses Association commemorates Covid-19 victims

admin — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 08:00:01 +0000

UK: Zimbabwe Midwives and Nurses Association commemorates Covid-19 victims

/sites/default/files/imported_articles_images/node__12628.jpg

admin Mon, 06/20/2022 - 08:00

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Original Publisher

Diaspora Archives - NewZimbabwe.com

Original Article

UK: Zimbabwe Midwives and Nurses Association commemorates Covid-19 victims

By Staff Reporter

THE global COVID-19 pandemic which began in the later part of 2019 in China, left a huge trail of devastation as it swept across the globe. Nothing was spared; the global economy was brought to its knees as virtually all industries were shut down. Healthcare workers risked their lives as they battled to save dying patients on the wards and in Intensive Care Units with little or no protection. As a result, many lost their lives during the pandemic and those that survived suffered a lot of psychological trauma. It is with this in mind that ZiMNA-UK held a remembrance and commemoration day in honour of those heroes that lost their lives because of exposure to the virus while discharging their duties.

ZiMNA-UK is a charitable organisation that was formed to support nurses and midwives from Zimbabwe working in the UK. The chairperson for ZiMNA is Jesca Gudza; the outgoing vice-chairperson is Lucia Vambe and the new vice chairperson is Jabu Chikore.

The event was held at Sketchley Grange Hotel in Hinckley, Leicestershire, on the 28th of May 2022. Ministers of the word, Pastor Zendera and Evangelist Mutema, led the commemoration by providing the word of encouragement. Nurses shared their experiences during the pandemic. They made huge sacrifices by looking after patients with little or no protection, especially when the pandemic started. Many have been affected mentally and required admission into psychiatric units.

Jesca Gudza, the chairperson of the association, explained how ZiMNA was formed, the vision of the organisation and its successes. ZiMNA wishes to celebrate every year the nurses that lost their lives due to COVID-19. Besides providing an advocacy for nurses in the UK, ZiMNA remains focused on the delivery of healthcare in Zimbabwe. ZiMNA has managed to source beds and equipment for Ngomahuru hospital, a psychiatric hospital in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. They are appealing for £25, 000 to ship the equipment to Zimbabwe. Those that can help can get in touch with ZiMNA through their email address, enquiries@zimna.co.uk

At the end of the event, the leadership of ZiMNA led the attendees in the release of balloons in remembrance of the heroes that lost their lives during the COVID-19.

Diaspora Insurance was one of the main sponsors of the event. Diaspora Insurance, being a key pillar of the African diaspora community, has been sponsoring events organised by the various African diaspora communities in remembrance of those that died during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their key product, the Diaspora Funeral Cash Plan (DFCP), made a huge impact on the African diaspora community during the pandemic. Families that lost their loved ones during the pandemic immediately got financial intervention to meet end of life expenses. Since borders were shut down during the lockdown, this meant that no body repatriation was happening. Policies that only provide body repatriation were rendered useless, but with a cash cover like DFCP, families were given options of laying their loved ones to rest in the diaspora. The cash also helped families to cover unanticipated expenses like isolation in hotels upon their return from Africa.

The pandemic seems to have gone but its long-term effects will be with us for a long time. Those that were affected will continue to need our support.

IMAGES

Joy Kapesa

Evangelist Mutema

ZiMNA UK executives

The post UK: Zimbabwe Midwives and Nurses Association commemorates Covid-19 victims appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.

Diaspora

News

Zimbabwe

LATEST: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Arrested Again

Comments

Current Economic Recession: Impact on Market Supplies and Demand

FBC Bank Launches Noku, Digital Banking Assistant on Whatsapp

Zambia vice president tests positive for Covid-19

Government collects Sh8.6 trillion through NMB Bank

Summary

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

Government collects Sh6 trillion through NMB Bank

It's the content that counts

We are building one Tanzania, says Samia

PRIME Will Budget avert recurrence of Kariakoo-like controversies?

Zimbabwe charges 39 opposition supporters over violence

Gains of Tanzania, India local currency trading

Summary

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

How Tanzania trades with world's leading economies

It's the content that counts

A sour taste creeps into Kenyan tea

Summary

Thank you for reading Nation.Africa

Tea giants lose certification after Kenya sex abuse probe

Kenya launches probe into sex abuse claims at UK tea firms

Local militancy

Ghana UK community showcase rich culture in traditional leaders durbar

CHINA: Zim medicine student savours freedom, diversity in Xinjiang

UK: Zimbabwe Midwives and Nurses Association commemorates Covid-19 victims