THE HERDS: Life-Sized Animal Puppets Embark on Epic 20,000km Journey to Spark Global Climate Action
– the 2024 Living Planet Report reported a drop of 73% on average in wildlife populations since 1970. John Cassim In a bid to inspire millions of conservationists worldwide to take action on climate change and nature loss, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is supporting THE HERDS, a unique global public art and climate activation initiative. From […]
Airport Expansion: A Key Driver for Zimbabwean Tourism Growth, Says Minister
John Cassim Zimbabwe’s Tourism Minister, Barbra Rwodzi, has said the expansion of the country’s major airports is a crucial factor contributing to the growth of its tourism sector. Minister Rwodzi made these remarks during the 2nd United Nations Tourism Summit for Africa and the Americas, held in Livingstone, Zambia. The Summit’s theme is “Advancing […]
Veld Fires: A Shared Responsibility in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, where agriculture is a cornerstone of many communities, the increasing threat of veld fires is exacerbated by climate change. Like other Southern African nations, the country faces unpredictable weather patterns, including droughts and intense heat, which contribute to more frequent and severe fires, jeopardizing both livelihoods and natural resources. As global temperatures rise […]
Indigenous Fruits and Vegetables: A Prime Source of Micronutrients for People Living with HIV
By John Cassim Imagine living with HIV and having access to food, yet still suffering from under-nutrition. This condition, known as ‘hidden hunger,’ occurs when the quality of food consumed does not meet an individual’s essential nutrient requirements. “Even though they are eating, they are not obtaining the crucial vitamins and minerals necessary for their […]
Sound Environmental Management: A Key Factor in HIV Treatment Success in Zimbabwe
John Cassim The interconnectedness of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and HIV underscores the urgent need for Zimbabwe to fully adopt a One Health approach, recognizing the inseparable link between human health and the environment. This holistic perspective is crucial for safeguarding the effectiveness of HIV treatment. Consequently, there’s a strong call for Zimbabwe to empower the […]
The Dark Side of Animal Production: Antiretroviral Drug Misuse in Tanzania
Catherine Murombedzi – Health Correspondent A recent study conducted by Zuhura L. Kimera, Peter Shimo, Emmanuel C. Balandya, Mecky I. N. Matee, and Lisa V. Adams in nine districts in Tanzania has uncovered a disturbing trend in the country’s animal production industry. Researchers found that antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, typically used to treat HIV, are being […]
Biogas Project Empowers Mbire Community Against Climate Change
Lawrence Mutasa, feeding his biogas digester with cow dung mixed with water at his homestead in Mbire: Credit: John Cassim John Cassim In Mbire, as the day ends, familiar scenes emerge, women at boreholes, men collecting tiny logs for firewood. However, at Mr. Lawrence Mutasa’s homestead in Ward 17, the rhythm is distinct. Upon arrival, […]
Zimbabwe’s Lake Harvest, Faces Potential Closure; Appeals for 15% Fish Tax Exemption
John Cassim Lake Harvest, one of Zimbabwe’s largest fish producers, is facing imminent closure if the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) garnishes its bank accounts due to unpaid taxes, ConserveZim has learned. While the exact amount owed remains unspecified, sources within Lake Harvest indicate that the imposition of a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) has significantly […]
The Kombi Crash We Ignore: Zimbabwe’s Daily Toll of Cervical Cancer
John Cassim Imagine hearing that a minibus (kombi) full of women crashes every day, resulting in at least six fatalities. These are shocking statistics that would compel the Zimbabwean government to act. One might expect the Zimbabwe Republic Police to establish roadblocks, apprehend reckless drivers, and impound unroadworthy kombis to curb the carnage. The reality, […]
Tens of Thousands in Zimbabwe Go Hungry as the Rains — and US Aid — Hold Back
Agnes Tauzeni stands in her maize field in Mudzi, Zimbabwe, where repeated plantings have failed due to prolonged drought. With US-funded food aid abruptly halted, she now fears for her family’s survival – Credit – Linda Mujuru HARARE, ZIMBABWE — Agnes Tauzeni stands on her parched field. She is a mother to two children, and […]