LOCAL NEWS

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The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has witnessed a significant increase in maize deliveries from farmers compared to the same period last year.

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Government's drive to resuscitate ailing companies is bearing fruit, with David Whitehead Textiles now operational and revitalizing local economies.

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Citizens have called on the public transport operators to adopt online fare payments such as EcoCash and tap cards alongside other methods of payment in order to address perennial issues of change.

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Construction of the Manyame Water Treatment Plant is expected to greatly improve Harare's water supply. This ambitious project, expected to cost US$180 million, seeks to address the City's chronic water shortages by processing water from Lake Manyame.

Sports Reporter

Zimbabwean mixed martial artist Themba Gorimbo continues to elevate the nation’s presence in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), defeating American fighter Ramiz Brahimaj in a welterweight bout yesterday.

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Dinson Iron and Steel Company has completed its first phase worth a whooping $15 billion at Manhize, Mvuma.

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The Angolan Foreign Minister, Tete Antonio, has praised President Mnangagwa and ZANU PF on their August, 2023 electoral victory labelling it a milestone that sets the stage for the country's socio-economic advancement.

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Zimbabwe is set to revolutionise its border security by introducing an advanced biometric system, incorporating fingerprint and iris recognition technology, to streamline and secure entry and exit processes.

The Chief Immigration Officer, Ms. Respect Gono announced that the initiative aims to replace traditional manual checks with automated solutions, enhancing efficiency and security at the nation's borders.

The new Online Border Management System (OBMS) will be piloted at major points of entry, including Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport, and Beitbridge Border Post, with additional implementations at several inland stations.

This system marks a significant modernization of the immigration process, positioning Zimbabwe as a leader in border security technology within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Ms. Gono highlighted the benefits of the OBMS in a statement to the press.

"This border management system will enhance the coordination and efficiency of all border agencies, facilitating a more secure and seamless process for travellers," she explained.

The system draws inspiration from Dubai’s Smart Gates and promises a contactless, efficient entry process for visitors.

Security expert Givemore Njanji explained that the OBMS is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing security databases, allowing for real-time identity verification through cutting-edge biometric technologies.

“Travellers will encounter digital gate platforms equipped with automated self-service barriers that utilise data from their passports, biometric information, and pre-submitted travel details. For those not using the pre-clearance facility, a kiosk model will be available to guide them through the necessary steps,” said Njanji.

Njanji added that each traveller’s identity will be verified through a combination of fingerprint and iris scans, matched against data stored in the national immigration database.

“This approach not only speeds up the immigration process but also significantly increases security by preventing identity fraud and illegal entry,” said Njanji.

According to Njanji, the implementation of this system is a proactive measure to safeguard Zimbabwe's borders against the backdrop of global security challenges.

“By adopting such advanced technology, Zimbabwe aims to ensure a balance between welcoming global visitors and maintaining stringent security measures that align with international standards,” added Njanji.

As the pilot phase commences at key transit hubs, the successful integration of the OBMS will serve as a benchmark for other countries in the region, showcasing Zimbabwe's commitment to embracing technological solutions to enhance national and regional security.

Staff Reporter

Zimbabweans have voiced a strong support for the Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) Bill, which seeks to regulate Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) operating within the country.

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Government released US$5 million as payment to wheat farmers, bolstering efforts for the winter planting season.