Editor`s Opinion
As 2024 draws to a close, let’s take a moment to appreciate the year that felt like a binge-worthy drama. From shocking exits and jaw-dropping scandals to triumphant comebacks and a few moments of “Wait, did that really happen?”—this year had it all. Whether it was political intrigue, sporting heroics, or unexpected twists in the world of mining (yes, mining had its own plotlines), 2024 kept us on our toes.
Now, I won’t rank these stories like a music chart—because let’s face it, nobody wants to argue over whether a lithium bust beats a soccer triumph—but here’s a roundup of the 50 biggest headlines that made us laugh, cry, and occasionally scream into the void. Buckle up!
Politics & Power Plays
2024 was a year of high-stakes political maneuvering, explosive revelations, and seismic shifts in Zimbabwe’s power dynamics.
- Chamisa shocked the nation by resigning from the CCC, accusing ZANU-PF of hijacking the party and pledging a fresh start.
- A $1.5 billion gold smuggling scandal tarnished Zimbabwe’s international reputation, leading to sanctions.
- Zimbabwe flexed its muscles in the global lithium market with export bans and 26% government stakes in mining projects.
- Chamisa’s exit left parliament in chaos as MPs debated whether to stick with a crumbling CCC or follow him into uncharted waters.
- President Mnangagwa tightened his grip on power despite mounting criticism, keeping ZANU-PF firmly in control.
Crime & Society
The darker side of society surfaced this year, with shocking crimes that felt ripped from a thriller.
- Six robbers pulled off Zimbabwe’s largest bank heist in Bulawayo, stealing $4.4 million.
- Crimes of passion surged, with domestic violence cases making headlines.
- The festive season turned bloody, with 47 murders reported in just one week.
- Sobering statistics revealed a woman in Zimbabwe is attacked every 90 minutes, spotlighting the country’s rape crisis.
- Illegal gold mining in Kwekwe caused dangerous land collapses, highlighting the deadly risks of unregulated operations.
Mining & Economic Shifts
Zimbabwe’s resource sector saw dizzying highs and devastating lows in 2024.
- The lithium boom showed signs of busting as global prices plummeted, testing the country’s mining resilience.
- Rolling blackouts disrupted mining operations, threatening Zimbabwe’s ambitious $12 billion mining export target.
- Eco-friendly policies and renewable energy mandates hinted at a greener future for mining.
- The closure of Fidelity Gold Refinery branches nationwide shook up Zimbabwe’s gold industry.
- ZIDA’s ambitious push for billion-dollar investments demanded that global firms prioritize local processing.
Sports Highlights
Sports brought joy and pride to a year otherwise marked by turbulence.
- Walter Musona dazzled fans and earned the title of Soccer King of the Year.
- The Glamour Boys, Dynamos, defended their Chibuku Super Cup title, proving their dominance.
- Betting Wins for the National Fiscus – Starting January 1, 2025, the Finance Ministry has introduced a new regulation that will see 10% of all betting winnings channeled into the national fiscus. While some punters may groan at the new levy, the government sees it as a win-win, promising to invest the funds into national development initiatives. As betting remains a popular pastime for many, the contribution could mean a jackpot for the nation’s coffers.
- The Warriors’ AFCON qualification brought not only pride but presidential payouts.
- Teenage football prodigy Shumaira Mheuka signed with Chelsea, marking a major milestone for Zimbabwean talent.
- Kwekwe United Ascend to the Big Time! – 2025 kicks off with a roar for football fans in Kwekwe, as Kwekwe United have officially secured their place in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League. The promotion marks a monumental achievement for the club and ignites pride in the Kwekwe massive, whose unwavering support has brought this dream to life. It’s a fresh chapter in the footballing narrative of the Midlands town, with the team now poised to compete on the national stage. The buzz in Kwekwe? Electrifying.
- The Mighty Warriors bowed out early at COSAFA, leaving fans hopeful for future triumphs.
- Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke: A Celebration of Resilience and Legacy – The 2025 Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke ended in Zvishavane after three grueling days that tested the endurance and mental grit of participating cyclists. The event began with Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Minister Marion Chombo flagging off the riders for a 328km journey through the diverse landscapes of the Great Dyke. For Chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere, the event is more than just a race. Timed to honor his late mother’s memory, the tour highlights wellness, productivity, and philanthropy, with proceeds benefiting the Gifted Children Foundation in Zvishavane. “The tour has been a huge success,” said Hwengwere, who applauded the cyclists and sponsors for their commitment. A blend of sport, wellness, and tribute, the Tour de Great Dyke continues to shine as an inspiring fixture in Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar.
- FC Platinum Shines as the Most Disciplined Team of 2024 – FC Platinum was honored as the Most Disciplined Team in the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, a recognition of their exceptional sportsmanship and unwavering commitment to fair play. Known for their mining roots, discipline seems to come naturally to the Zvishavane-based side, but this accolade is no less a testament to their character both on and off the pitch. Representing the Great Dyke with pride, FC Platinum continues to set the standard, proving that success isn’t just about victories but also about upholding the spirit of the game. Kudos to the miners—true champions in every sense!
Health & Humanitarian Crises
2024 was marked by heartbreaking challenges to public health and safety.
- Cholera outbreaks overwhelmed hospitals, demanding urgent intervention.
- Urban crime surged, with robberies and gang violence leaving cities on edge.
The Cotton Conundrum
Cottco dominated the headlines with scandals that revealed the depth of corruption.
- Allegations of inputs abuse and fuel theft rocked Cottco, leading to suspensions and outrage.
- Millions of dollars’ worth of cotton seeds and fertilizer went missing, implicating top managers.
- Authorities pledged expanded investigations into Cottco’s finances after widespread theft was uncovered.
- The controversial exit of CEO Prisca Mutembwa added to the company’s instability during a tumultuous period.
The Platinum Price Slump
The global price crash hit Zimbabwe’s platinum industry hard, forcing difficult decisions.
- Miners called on the government to lower taxes and tariffs to help offset dwindling profits.
- Platinum companies initiated cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and efficiency drives.
- The economic ripple effect jeopardized Zimbabwe’s export earnings and balance of payments.
- Tharisa delayed the Karo Platinum project to 2025 due to financial constraints.
- Mimosa Mining shelved expansion plans and reduced its workforce to cope with falling prices.
- Zimplats reported its first loss since 2009, signaling trouble for the industry’s biggest player.
Community & Culture
Amid challenges, Zimbabweans showcased resilience, community spirit, and innovation.
- The Palawani Wellness Challenge brought together athletes, miners, and footballers to promote health and wellness.
- FC Platinum joined wellness initiatives, highlighting the importance of fitness within the community.
- Young athletes like Tatenda Hove and Yvert Sibanda inspired with stellar performances at the Palawani Challenge.
- Agriculture Minister Dr. Anxious Masuka encouraged Zimbabwean youth to embrace opportunities at home rather than looking abroad.
- Heritage-based education initiatives aimed to foster self-reliance and innovation among the younger generation.
Hope Amid the Headlines
Even as industries struggled, there were glimpses of optimism and resilience.
- Mining firms like Mimosa balanced economic challenges with significant community contributions.
- New platinum investments, including the Karo Platinum project, faced uncertainty amid the global price crisis.
- Activists called for greater accountability and forensic audits at Cottco.
- Merjkh Holdings was praised for its heritage-focused initiatives, inspiring innovation and resilience.
- Zimbabwe’s heavy reliance on mineral exports—75% of earnings—exposed vulnerabilities in its economy.
- Input scandals threatened to derail progress in Zimbabwe’s cotton sector, sparking calls for reform and accountability.
2025 has arrived, carrying the promise of new beginnings and untold possibilities. Like the first bloom after a stormy season, this year invites us to dream bigger, aim higher, and embrace change with open arms. The lessons of 2024—its challenges, victories, and moments of growth—are the foundation upon which we stand, ready to build a brighter tomorrow.
This is the year to chart new paths, to write stories of innovation, unity, and progress. The dawn of 2025 isn’t just a turning of the calendar; it’s a call to action, a beacon guiding us toward the future we dare to imagine. Let’s make it a year to remember—together.
