Monday, June 01

Businessman Mutumwa Mawere has died at the age of 66.

Mawere died at a hospital in South Africa just days after celebrating his 66th birthday on January 11.

While the exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, reports indicate that Mawere had been battling severe health challenges. He was diagnosed with an acute neurological condition in 2024, which reportedly led to a rapid deterioration in his health. By late 2024, Mawere had been hospitalised for an extended period and was said to be unable to speak, appearing visibly frail in images that later circulated. His health struggles reportedly compounded his legal challenges, with court documents in related proceedings noting his impaired capacity.

Mawere leaves behind a significant business legacy, most notably as the founder of SMM Holdings, a major industrial conglomerate with interests spanning asbestos mining, manufacturing and banking.

After working as a senior investments officer at the World Bank until 1994, Mawere returned to Zimbabwe and established SMM Holdings. The company grew into one of the country’s largest conglomerates, employing thousands of workers and contributing substantially to Zimbabwe’s export economy through operations such as Shabanie and Mashaba Mines.

His business philosophy strongly emphasised black economic empowerment and private-sector-led growth in post-independence Zimbabwe, positioning him as a prominent figure in the country’s industrial reconstruction during a period of mounting economic challenges.

In 2004, the Zimbabwean government invoked the Reconstruction of State-Indebted Insolvent Companies Act to take control of SMM Holdings, citing alleged insolvency and debts owed to the state. Mawere consistently challenged the move, describing it as arbitrary, unconstitutional and politically motivated.
The takeover triggered prolonged legal battles across Zimbabwe, Southern Africa and international courts, disputes that would come to define much of Mawere’s later life and career.

  • Share:

Info News

Best Life Insurance Policy for Families: Term vs. Whole Life Explained

Life insurance is one of the most important financial protections a family can consider. If someone depends on your income, life insurance can help provide money for bills, mortgage payments, childcare, education costs, and everyday expenses if you pass away.

The two common types of life insurance are term life and whole life. Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. If the insured person dies during that term, the policy pays a death benefit to the beneficiary. If the term ends and the policy is not renewed, coverage usually expires.

Whole life insurance is permanent coverage designed to last for the insured person’s lifetime, as long as premiums are paid. It also includes a cash value component that may grow over time. Because of this, whole life insurance usually costs more than term life insurance.

For many families, term life insurance is attractive because it can provide a larger amount of coverage at a lower monthly cost. This can be helpful during the years when a family has a mortgage, children at home, car payments, and other major financial responsibilities.

Whole life insurance may appeal to people who want lifetime coverage, estate planning benefits, or a policy with cash value. However, because premiums are higher, it is important to understand whether the extra cost fits your budget and long-term goals.

When choosing a life insurance policy, start by estimating how much coverage your family may need. A common approach is to consider income replacement, debt, funeral costs, future education expenses, and the number of years your family would need financial support.

You should also compare quotes from multiple companies. Life insurance premiums can vary based on age, health, tobacco use, occupation, lifestyle, family medical history, and coverage amount. Buying earlier in life often results in lower premiums because age and health are major pricing factors.

Before applying, review the company’s financial strength and customer service reputation. Life insurance is a long-term product, so you want a provider that is stable and reliable.

The best life insurance policy depends on your family’s needs. Term life may be better for affordable income protection. Whole life may be better for permanent coverage and long-term planning. Some families use both.

Always read the policy details carefully before purchasing. This article is for general education and should not replace advice from a licensed insurance professional.

Viral “2026 Is the New 2016” Trend Takes Over Social Media

A growing social media movement known as “2026 Is the New 2016” has become one of the most talked-about trends online. Millions of users across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are recreating the music, fashion, and internet culture that defined 2016, bringing nostalgia-driven content back into the spotlight.

Creators are posting videos featuring old Snapchat-style filters, popular dances, throwback music playlists, and fashion trends that dominated social media nearly a decade ago. Songs that were major hits in 2016 are also climbing streaming charts again as younger audiences rediscover older internet trends. Hashtags connected to the movement are generating millions of views daily.

Marketing experts believe nostalgia content performs especially well during uncertain economic and political times because it provides audiences with a sense of comfort and familiarity. Fashion brands and influencers are quickly adapting by promoting styles inspired by mid-2010s culture, including oversized clothing, vintage sneakers, and retro smartphone aesthetics.

The trend has also sparked debates about how quickly internet culture evolves and recycles itself. Social media analysts predict nostalgia-based content will remain highly popular throughout 2026 as creators continue reviving trends from earlier digital eras.