Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, is causing severe ecological damage, with mercury pollution posing significant health risks. Despite the Minamata Convention's ban on mercury, its use persists, driven by the global gold market. The environmental and health impacts are dire, affecting local communities and ecosystems. Efforts to find safer gold extraction methods, such as using sodium borate, are underway, but awareness and implementation remain challenges.

In Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, illegal gold mining activities are causing severe ecological damage, including deforestation, water pollution, and mercury contamination. The local economy's collapse has driven many to mine gold, with an estimated 800,000 people involved in illegal mining. The use of mercury, a neurotoxin, in gold extraction is widespread despite health risks and international efforts to ban its use. Studies have shown increased mercury levels in local populations, with serious health implications. Efforts are being made to introduce safer gold extraction methods, such as using sodium borate.

Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, has led to severe ecological damage, including deforestation, water pollution, and mercury contamination. The economic crisis has driven approximately 800,000 people into illegal mining, exacerbating environmental degradation. Mercury, used to extract gold, poses significant health risks, with exposure leading to serious health issues. Despite Zimbabwe ratifying the Minamata Convention on Mercury, the toxin remains prevalent in mining areas. Efforts are being made to find safer gold extraction methods, but awareness and implementation are still lacking.

Chinese companies have heavily invested in Zimbabwe's lithium, aiming to secure a significant share of the global EV battery supply chain. Despite being displaced by the $130 million Sabi Star lithium mine, locals like Wonder Mushove are hopeful for regional upliftment. Zimbabwe's lithium reserves, the largest in Africa, have attracted over $1.4 billion in Chinese investments, with more expected. The government, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, aspires to make Zimbabwe a battery manufacturing hub, despite concerns over resource governance and community benefits. Chinese battery giants like BYD are sourcing lithium from Zimbabwe, and investments in processing infrastructure are underway. However, challenges remain, including the need for value addition and regional cooperation to fully capitalize on the energy transition.

Chinese companies have heavily invested in Zimbabwe's lithium mining sector, aiming to secure a place in the global EV battery supply chain. Zimbabwe, with its vast lithium reserves, seeks to process some of the mineral locally to boost economic development. However, challenges such as poor resource governance, human rights concerns, and regulatory gaps persist. President Emmerson Mnangagwa aims to transform Zimbabwe into a battery manufacturing hub by 2030. Local communities have mixed feelings about the mining projects, with some hopeful for economic upliftment and others critical of displacement and inadequate local benefits.

In Zimbabwe, opposition activists have been abducted, tortured, and injected with an unknown substance by suspected state security agents. The ruling party, Zanu PF, is accused of carrying out these actions, which are feared to be a slow-acting poison. Victims include members of the Citizens Coalition for Change, led by Nelson Chamisa, who has rejected the results of the recent general elections, alleging rigging by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. International organizations and embassies have condemned the human rights abuses, while the Zimbabwean government has been unresponsive to inquiries.

Namibia's High Court is set to rule on a case challenging the colonial-era ban on same-sex relations, reflecting a broader colonial legacy of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Africa. While countries like Mauritius have recently decriminalized same-sex relations, many former British colonies still retain such laws. Activists argue that these laws, rooted in colonialism, continue to perpetuate discrimination. The article also contrasts the British colonial impact with that of Portuguese and French colonial legacies, noting that some former colonies have since decriminalized same-sex activity. Additionally, foreign religious groups and sharia law also influence anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in some African countries.

The article explores the colonial origins of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Africa, highlighting how British colonial laws have had a lasting impact on many African nations. It discusses the ongoing legal challenges and reforms in countries like Namibia and Mauritius, where efforts are being made to decriminalize same-sex relations. The piece also examines the influence of other colonial powers, such as Portugal and France, and the role of contemporary political and religious forces in shaping anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments. Key figures and organizations advocating for LGBTQ+ rights are featured, alongside the pushback from conservative leaders in countries like Uganda and Kenya.

Anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Africa often have colonial origins, with British colonial laws having a lasting impact. Namibia's High Court is set to rule on overturning a colonial-era ban on same-sex relations, while Mauritius recently decriminalized same-sex relations. Despite some progress, many African countries still enforce colonial-era laws, influenced by British, French, and Portuguese legacies. Activists argue that these laws are not inherently African and point to historical examples of more fluid sexual behavior. The current pushback on LGBTQ+ rights in some African countries is driven by a wave of conservatism and political elites framing homosexuality as 'un-African.'

Namibia's High Court is set to rule on a case challenging the colonial-era ban on same-sex relations, reflecting a broader struggle against anti-LGBTQ+ laws rooted in colonial history. While some African countries like Mauritius have recently decriminalized same-sex relations, others, influenced by British colonial laws, continue to enforce such bans. Activists argue that these laws are a colonial legacy, contrasting with historical examples of more fluid sexual behavior in Africa. The article highlights the varying impacts of colonial powers, with British laws having a more lasting effect compared to Portuguese and French colonial legacies. The current pushback against LGBTQ+ rights in countries like Uganda and Kenya is framed as a defense of African values against Western influence.

In Zimbabwe, opposition activists have been abducted, tortured, and injected with unknown substances by suspected state security agents, raising fears of a slow-acting poison. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) accuses President Emmerson Mnangagwa's regime of orchestrating these attacks. Victims, including CCC members Womberaiishe Nhende and Takudzwa Ngadziore, report severe physical and emotional trauma. Human rights organizations and international embassies condemn the violence, urging thorough investigations and justice for victims. The Zimbabwean government denies the allegations, claiming no reports have been filed.

Leprosy, a disease historically associated with severe disability and social stigma, is showing signs of resurgence in Zimbabwe, a country already struggling with poverty and a weakened healthcare system. Despite being considered eliminated as a public health threat three decades ago, recent years have seen new cases emerge, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption of healthcare services. The Zimbabwean government, along with international health organizations, is taking steps to improve early detection and treatment to prevent further spread. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in managing neglected tropical diseases in regions with limited healthcare resources.

Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, has led to severe ecological damage, including deforestation, water pollution, and mercury contamination. Thousands of miners, driven by economic desperation, are using mercury to extract gold, causing significant health risks and environmental degradation. Despite Zimbabwe ratifying the Minamata Convention to ban mercury in gold mining, its use persists, exacerbated by the global gold market. Local residents and experts express deep concern over the irreversible damage and call for safer mining practices and increased awareness of mercury's dangers.

Leprosy, a disease historically associated with severe disability and social stigma, is showing signs of resurgence in Zimbabwe, a country already struggling with poverty and a weakened healthcare system. Despite being considered eliminated as a public health threat three decades ago, recent years have seen new cases emerge, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on healthcare services. The Zimbabwean government, along with international health organizations, is ramping up efforts to detect and treat the disease early. Similar trends are observed in other African nations like Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the need for sustained vigilance and resources to combat this ancient disease.

Leprosy, a disease historically associated with severe disability and social stigma, is showing signs of resurgence in Zimbabwe, a country already struggling with poverty and a weakened healthcare system. Despite being declared eliminated as a public health threat three decades ago, recent years have seen new cases emerge, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption of healthcare services. The Zimbabwean government, along with international health organizations, is ramping up efforts to detect and treat the disease early. Experts warn that the situation in Zimbabwe is reflective of broader trends in Africa, with countries like Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo also experiencing rising cases. The resurgence underscores the need for sustained vigilance and resources to combat leprosy effectively.

Tsetse flies, which transmit sleeping sickness, are migrating to cooler parts of Zimbabwe due to climate change. Rising temperatures have made higher altitudes more suitable for tsetse, potentially increasing the risk of sleeping sickness in previously safe areas. Despite an overall decline in tsetse populations, experts warn that control measures must continue to prevent resurgence. The World Health Organization is providing technical and financial support to Zimbabwe's efforts to eradicate sleeping sickness, with optimism that the disease can be controlled despite climate challenges.

Zimbabwe is facing a severe energy crisis due to prolonged drought, which has significantly reduced water levels at its main hydropower dam, leading to extensive rolling blackouts. The crisis underscores the vulnerability of hydropower-dependent nations to climate change. In response, Zimbabwe is exploring alternative energy sources, including coal, solar power, and biogas. Researchers suggest better management of existing hydropower resources and highlight the potential of solar and biogas technologies, though regulatory changes are needed to attract investment in renewable energy.

Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, has led to severe ecological damage, including mercury pollution of water sources, deforestation, and destruction of local infrastructure. The economic desperation driven by Zimbabwe's struggling economy has pushed many into illegal mining, despite the health risks associated with mercury exposure. Efforts to curb mercury use, such as the Minamata Convention, have been ineffective, and local residents and experts express grave concerns over the environmental and health impacts. There are calls for safer gold extraction methods and increased awareness of mercury's dangers.

Zimbabwe faces severe droughts, leaving millions food insecure and reliant on NGOs for aid. The Zimbabwean government's proposed amendments to the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Act could restrict NGO operations, potentially worsening the food crisis. Experts and activists condemn the bill, arguing it will limit food aid and violate human rights. The government defends the bill as a measure against financial terrorism and money laundering. Similar restrictive laws in Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Rwanda are cited as examples of shrinking civil society space globally.

In Zimbabwe, bees are facing threats from climate change, pesticides, habitat loss, and poor colony management, which are pushing them towards extinction. Bees are crucial for pollination and support the livelihoods of over 50,000 beekeepers in the country. Professional beekeepers Ishmael Sithole and Willet Mutisi have established a bee sanctuary in Mutare to protect bees and provide them with safe habitats. The sanctuary also serves as a training center for colony management and a site for 'apitourism', a form of ecotourism. Despite challenges, the sanctuary offers benefits such as fresh local honey, hive products, and swarm removal services. The initiative has received support from the local community, who recognize the importance of bees in preserving the environment and preventing deforestation.

Zimbabwean farmers have adapted to climate change by implementing rainwater harvesting strategies, which have proven effective in mitigating the effects of droughts and floods. These low-cost, scalable methods could be beneficial for small-scale farmers in the US, particularly in states like California, which faces similar climate challenges. Nonprofit organizations in Zimbabwe, such as Muonde Trust and Bopoma Villages, are leading grassroots efforts to teach local communities various water-harvesting techniques. The UN Environment Program and UNESCO have also launched a smartphone app to assist in rainwater harvesting across Africa. The US is beginning to adopt similar conservation farming practices, and legislation like the Agriculture Improvement Act supports such initiatives. Learning from Zimbabwe's experience could help US farmers improve water security and manage the impacts of climate change.

Smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe, particularly in Village M, are increasingly turning to beekeeping as a response to severe climate change-induced droughts that have drastically reduced crop yields. Beekeeping requires less land and water compared to traditional crop farming and provides a stable income even during droughts. The demand for honey is growing in both formal and informal markets, driven by its use in confectioneries, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Experts and local leaders are advocating for modern beekeeping techniques to improve yields and protect bees. Innovations like the MacJohnson hive are helping mitigate the risks posed by agrochemicals. Beekeeping is seen as a sustainable and profitable alternative to traditional farming in the face of climate change.

In Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands, an invasive plant known as the Bee plant is causing a rift between farmers and beekeepers. While farmers view the plant as a threat to fertile croplands and pastures, beekeepers appreciate its role in boosting honey production during winter. The plant, introduced from Mozambique, has spread rapidly, leading to calls for its eradication by farmers and environmentalists. Beekeepers, however, argue that the plant provides essential winter food for bees, resulting in high-quality monofloral honey. The conflict remains unresolved as both sides hold firm in their positions.

Thousands of Zimbabwean farmers, displaced by drought, have migrated to the eastern highlands, leading to conflicts with the timber industry and government. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has labeled these migrants as 'illegal settlers' and called for their eviction, citing negative impacts on the timber industry. The Timber Producers Federation reports significant financial losses due to the settlements. Climate migration remains a pressing issue in Zimbabwe, exacerbated by severe droughts and economic challenges. Some African countries have developed policies to address climate migration, but Zimbabwe has yet to implement such measures.

Lloyd Gweshengwe and other climate migrants in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands face a dire dilemma as they contend with increasingly frequent tropical storms and cyclones. Initially attracted by the region's favorable agricultural conditions, these migrants now grapple with the destructive impacts of severe weather events like Cyclone Idai. Despite government efforts to repair infrastructure, many migrants are considered 'illegal settlers' and lack access to essential aid. Charity Migwi from 350Africa.org calls for comprehensive measures to help communities adapt to climate change, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the effects of extreme weather.

In Zimbabwe, the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in March 2019 has left children and youth, who make up roughly half of the 270,000 affected, struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. Trust Mathonore, a promising young golfer, was severely injured and displaced by the cyclone, which killed over 1,000 people across Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi. Despite some support from organizations like ZADHR, mental health has been a low priority in relief efforts, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Children are showing signs of trauma, such as difficulty concentrating and nightmares. Long-term psychological effects may include depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Local initiatives like the Matsetso Sports Club are helping children rebuild and prepare for future opportunities, such as anticipated tourism jobs linked to a planned transfrontier peace park.

Andrew Mambondiyani is a Zimbabwe-based journalist with a focus on climate change and environmental issues. His articles have been featured in a variety of prestigious local and international media outlets, including BBC, Thomson Reuters Foundation, IPS, Mongabay, Aljazeera, and Yale E360. His work is known for its investigative nature, providing in-depth coverage on the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation in Zimbabwe and beyond.

Zimbabwe is facing a severe groundwater crisis due to prolonged droughts, exacerbated by climate change. The country, which has been experiencing recurrent droughts since 1992, is witnessing a rapid depletion of aquifers, leading to dried-up boreholes and wells. This has resulted in acute water shortages, particularly in rural areas. Climate change researcher Anna Brazier and hydrogeology professor Richard Taylor have highlighted the increased frequency and intensity of droughts and the importance of groundwater as a climate-resilient freshwater source. The Zimbabwean government acknowledges the challenges and emphasizes the need for sustainable water resource management to support food security and meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The situation is critical, with water rationing in effect and the population heavily reliant on groundwater for various needs.

Beira, Mozambique's second largest city, faces severe flooding and rising sea levels, exacerbated by climate change. Residents like Albano Joze and Rildo Rafael express frustration over the city's poor infrastructure and lack of development. Mayor Daviz Simango highlights the need for significant investment to make the city resilient. The Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery and Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Management provide data on the increasing frequency of natural disasters. The 'Masterplan Beira 2035' aims to address these issues, but its success depends on cooperation from residents and investment from private companies.

The article discusses the economic situation in Zimbabwe, highlighting the prolonged economic difficulties the country has faced over the past 15 years. It points out the stark reality that formal employment is exceedingly rare, with government figures indicating that only 376,000 people out of a population of 14 million are in formal employment. This suggests that for the vast majority of Zimbabweans, the idea of dining out is a distant dream, reflecting the broader economic challenges and hardships faced by the population.

Jephias Mundondo, an independent HIV/Aids campaigner, has highlighted the issue of discrimination against individuals with HIV/Aids in the banking sector. He argues that with the increased availability of medication, banks should focus on the viability of a person's business and their ability to manage and expand it, rather than on their HIV status. Mundondo's comments suggest that there is a need for a shift in the banking industry's approach to lending and assessing the creditworthiness of entrepreneurs living with HIV/Aids.

The article discusses the plight of Silindiwe Moyana, an HIV positive mother from Chipinge, Zimbabwe, who is facing severe anxiety due to the ongoing drought in the country. The drought has led to a lack of food, exacerbating the health challenges for people living with HIV like Silindiwe. The situation is critical as the drought-induced starvation threatens the lives of her and her family, highlighting the dire consequences of climate events on vulnerable populations, particularly those already struggling with health issues.

Andrew Mambondiyani is a distinguished journalist from Zimbabwe with a focus on environmental issues. He has been recognized for his work with several awards, including the Environment Africa Award for his reporting on the impact of global warming and climate change on rural Zimbabwean communities. In 2005, he won the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists Water Conservation Award, and in 2006, he was named the Zimpapers Agricultural Reporter of the Year. Mambondiyani furthered his expertise by participating in the Knight Science Journalism program at MIT and was one of the first recipients of the Middlebury College environmental journalism fellowships.

The article discusses the severe economic decline of a country in Africa, which was once considered the continent's bread basket. The downturn was significantly influenced by the repercussions of land takeovers. These events led to a drastic transformation of the country's status, from being a major agricultural producer to facing economic turmoil. The situation was further exacerbated by persistent international sanctions. The journalist highlights the rapid change in the country's fortunes and the factors contributing to its current economic challenges.

The article is an announcement that the reporting from the news outlet 'Context' has moved to a new location. 'Context' is known for its award-winning journalism and focuses on three major global issues: climate change, the impact of technology on society, and the development of inclusive economies. The article does not provide detailed content on these topics but rather informs readers about the shift in where to find their reporting.

The article discusses the impact of diamond mining in the Marange fields of Eastern Zimbabwe, discovered in 2006. It highlights the human rights abuses and environmental pollution caused by the mining companies, which include Marange Resources, Anjin Investments, Jinan Mining, Mbada Diamonds, and Diamond Mining Corporation. The Zimbabwean government, which owns a stake in these companies, has recently ousted all but Marange Resources, creating uncertainty for the local population. The Centre for Research and Development (CRD) has documented abuses and pollution, while the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme has controversially cleared Marange diamonds for export. Despite the wealth of diamonds, local communities have seen little benefit, with companies failing to fulfill promises of community development. The government's recent move to consolidate diamond mining operations into the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company has left the future of local communities and environmental remediation uncertain.