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Zimbabwe food inflation bites as grain millers raise prices on Russia crisis

Published

3 years ago

March 12, 2022

HARARE – Zimbabwean millers on Friday raised prices for the staples maize meal and flour as the Russia-Ukraine conflict pushed up global grain and fertiliser costs, raising the risk of hunger in a nation already fragile from Covid-19 and economic mismanagement.

The association of private millers said Zimbabwe, which expects to import 155,000 tonnes of wheat this year through October, traditionally sources most of its wheat imports from Russia, from where supplies have been disrupted by the war.

Russia is also a major supplier fertilizer to Zimbabwe, raising the prospect of further hikes in prices driven by shortages and price hikes in inputs when the planting season starts later this year.

Maize meal will increase by 15 percent to 1,099 Zimbabwe dollars ($8.44) from 955 Zimbabwe dollars ($7.34), the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) said in a statement, adding that wheat flour would go up by about the same percentage, to 136,544 Zimbabwe dollars per metric tonne.

The southern African country’s economy was already battling high inflation before Rusia’s invasion of Ukraine and the new round of food price increases will add to its woes.

The World Food Programme has said that more than five million Zimbabweans, a third of the population, faced hunger between January and March 2022, when the harvest season begins.

The landing price of wheat had increased from US$475 before the Ukraine conflict to US$675 per tonne currently, GMAZ said.

Zimbabwe has also seen two fuel price increases inside a week, in line with surging international oil prices.

Petrol and diesel prices are up 18 percent and 22 percent since the beginning of the year, adding inflationary pressure to an economy battling a rapidly devaluing currency.

In February, month on month inflation rose by seven percent , up from 5.3 percent in January, reflecting rising prices in the economy.

An economic rebound expected when President Emmerson Mnangagwa replaced long-ruling Robert Mugabe after a November 2017 coup has failed to materialise, feeding into rising political tensions ahead of general elections due in 2023. – Reuters

Related Topics:Covid-19 Russia-Ukraine conflict Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe Republic Police officer faces charges for allegedly claiming to be ZRP boss

Published

11 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer appeared in court today facing charges of causing disaffection among police officers, procuring the use of a motor vehicle by fraud, and transmitting false data messages intending to cause harm.

Simbarashe Mandizvidza, an Assistant Inspector in the ZRP, was remanded in custody to Monday, when he will apply for bail.

According to the State, Mandizvidza on August 14, broadcast a video on his YouTube channel, Gondo Harishaye, claiming to be the head of the ZRP, despite knowing that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba holds the position.

The State alleges that Mandizvidza’s actions were intended to cause disaffection among police officers, contrary to Section 30 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.

Mandizvidza is also accused of procuring the use of a Ford Ranger vehicle by misrepresenting to Chief Inspector Chiteure that he had been instructed by Commissioner Makomo to use the vehicle for errands.

Furthermore, the State alleges that Mandizvidza transmitted false data messages on his YouTube channel, including claims that the ZRP Traffic section had been temporarily disbanded and that Chinese nationals must leave Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

The State indicated that it will oppose Mandizvidza’s bail application, citing the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public interest.

The case continues on Monday.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

22 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

23 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.