As the weekend draws to a close, Zimbabwe prepares for a pivotal week marked by significant political, economic, and sporting events. From the State of the Nation Address to critical social security updates, News Harare breaks down the most impactful stories for residents and stakeholders.
Politics: President Mnangagwa to Deliver SONA
All eyes will be turned toward Parliament on Tuesday, September 29, as President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa officially opens the Fourth Session of the 10th Parliament and delivers the State of the Nation Address (SONA). According to General Notice 1866 of 2026 issued by Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda, the President will address a joint sitting of the Senate and National Assembly at 14:00 hours.
This address is expected to outline the government’s legislative agenda for the new session and highlight key national development priorities. As the country pushes forward with its economic recovery plans, the SONA will provide a critical update on policy direction, infrastructure development, and fiscal strategies. Stakeholders are anticipating announcements that could signal the government’s approach to upcoming municipal elections and broader political reforms.
Economy & Social Security: NSSA Announces 30% Pension Increase
In a move that will offer relief to many beneficiaries, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) confirmed that monthly pension payouts will increase by nearly 30% starting October 1, 2026. NSSA General Manager Charles Shava stated that the adjustment is designed to provide more meaningful social protection amidst economic pressures.
- Pension and Other Benefits Scheme (POBS): The minimum monthly payout for approximately 250,000 pensioners and dependents will rise from US$70 to US$90.
- Accident Prevention and Workers’ Compensation Scheme (APWCS): Monthly disbursements for the 8,000 beneficiaries recovering from workplace injuries will increase from US$100 to US$130.
Shava attributed the increase to a robust financial health confirmed by a 2025 actuarial valuation, alongside improved operational efficiency and strong investment returns. NSSA’s investment income has surged from US$3 million in 2022 to about US$40 million, bolstered by strategic holdings in blue-chip companies on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange.
Infrastructure & Mining: Tharisa Secures Funding for Karo Project
The mining sector continues to demonstrate resilience with major investment milestones. Platinum producer Tharisa has placed US$300 million from a five-year senior secured bond into escrow, moving its Zimbabwe-based Karo Platinum Project closer to full funding. The bond, priced at 98% of principal with an 11% semi-annual coupon, was oversubscribed by institutional investors globally.
Tharisa CEO Phoevos Pouroulis described the project as “substantially de-risked,” with first ore expected from the Great Dyke operation in the fourth quarter of 2027. This development not only promises to double the company’s platinum group metals (PGM) output but also signals strong international investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s mining jurisdiction.
Sports: Warriors Return to the National Sports Stadium
Football fans have reason to celebrate as the national team, the Warriors, return to the refurbished National Sports Stadium (NSS) in Harare. This Monday, September 28, Zimbabwe will face the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a crucial Group E Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at 18:00 hours.
The Warriors enter the match with confidence after a 3-2 comeback victory over Sierra Leone in their opener. However, Coach Ramon Catala has cautioned against underestimating DRC, who are the group favourites and top the table after defeating Equatorial Guinea. The return to the NSS, now fully homologated after years of renovations, marks a new era for national football infrastructure.
Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Strong Winds
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a warning for parts of the country, anticipating rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds from Tuesday, September 29, through Thursday, October 1. Localised downpours exceeding 30mm are expected, particularly affecting Masvingo, Matabeleland South, and southern Manicaland provinces.
Residents are advised to take precautions, especially farmers who need to protect livestock and manage grain quality risks. The public should avoid standing under trees or near tall poles during storms. While this weather system brings early moisture, experts note that the upcoming rainy season is forecast to deliver below-normal rainfall due to El Niño patterns.
In Brief: Other Notable Developments
- Mohadi on Drug Abuse: Vice President Kembo Mohadi called for intensified community action against substance abuse, warning that drug addiction threatens cultural heritage and family structures. He urged traditional leaders to enforce the Traditional Leaders Act strictly.
- Cheetahs Crowned Champions: Zimbabwe’s national rugby sevens team lifted the Rugby Africa Cup after defeating hosts Uganda 26-19 in Kampala. The victory secures their promotion to the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Series for the 2027 season.
- Tech Excellence: Zimbabwean tech expert Fungai Jacqueline Kiwa has been recognised as Africa’s Most Outstanding Emerging CEO in Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation at the upcoming Global Distinguished CEOs Awards in Nigeria.
- Regional Instability: In neighbouring South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa is addressing a wave of violence following two mass shootings that left 27 dead. The incidents, linked to illegal mining turf wars and business rivalries, highlight the regional security challenges facing Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations.
