Mnangagwa

Shock As Mnangagwa Administration Imposes Restrictions On Churches

By Staff Reporter
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February 08, 2026

Shock As Mnangagwa Administration Imposes Restrictions On ChurchesCHURCHES and fuel stations in residential areas are facing stricter regulations as the Government moves to restore order in urban neighbourhoods, with officials insisting that enforcement of long-standing planning laws is now non-negotiable.Unveiling the reforms at a press conference in Harare last week, Mr Shingirai Mushamba, chief director of spatial planning and development in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, said the measures target developments that disrupt the peace of residential communities.

“Every place of worship operating in residential areas will now need to conduct services in enclosed, soundproofed buildings,” Mr Mushamba said.

He added that fuel stations will no longer be allowed to operate in residential zones unless they form part of formally approved commercial centres. “We are also putting an end to the establishment of new fuel service stations in these areas unless they are part of approved shopping centres,” he said.

The crackdown is rooted in existing municipal and planning laws. Under the Harare Noise (Amendment) By-laws, 2014, any activity disturbing the peace of residential areas—such as loudspeakers and amplified music—is prohibited unless approved by the council. Similarly, the Harare (Control of Worship in Open Spaces) By-laws, 2016, require churches to obtain permits for open-air services, restrict worship hours to between 10am and 6pm, and allow the council to revoke permits if services become a public nuisance.

On fuel stations, regulations fall under the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act (Chapter 29:13), which designates the Harare City Council as the local planning authority. Section 24 prohibits development without a permit, while Section 26 requires public notification and due process for land-use changes.Noise from churches, fuel stations in suburbs and wholesalers operating from residential areas; these are all hallmarks of unregulated growth,” she said.

“Restricting these activities makes neighbourhoods safer, less contentious and more livable. It’s a step toward orderly cities, which is the foundation of effective urban planning.”

However, Ms Nhemachena also warned that strict enforcement could disrupt livelihoods where formal commercial spaces are limited or costly.

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Urban planning experts have welcomed the move but urged careful implementation. Dr Percy Toriro said the measures reinforce long-standing principles of town planning.

“The balance between public good, convenience and ease of doing business is a delicate one,” Dr Toriro said. “Zoning must adapt to modern needs while respecting the science of urban planning, which is deeply tied to human behaviour and aspirations.”

Ms Fadzai Nhemachena, an urban planner and development practitioner, added that enforcing existing bylaws is an attempt to reclaim control of urban spaces and restore standards eroded over time.These stations must comply with zoning laws and not undermine the safety and tranquillity of residential areas,” Mr Mushamba emphasised.

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Mortgage Refinancing: Lowering Your Monthly Payments

Mortgage refinancing allows homeowners to replace their existing loan with a new one, often to secure a lower interest rate or better terms. This can significantly reduce monthly payments and overall loan costs. Many homeowners consider refinancing when market interest rates drop or their credit profile improves.

Before refinancing, it’s important to evaluate closing costs, loan terms, and long-term savings. While lower payments are attractive, extending the loan term may increase total interest paid over time. Careful comparison of options ensures that refinancing truly benefits your financial situation.

Car Accident Lawyer: What to Do After a Crash and When to Call an Attorney

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Car Accident Lawyer: What to Do After a Crash

A car accident can change your day in seconds. One moment you are driving. The next, you are dealing with injuries, police reports, damaged vehicles, insurance adjusters, and medical appointments.

If the crash was not your fault, you may wonder whether you need a car accident lawyer.

The answer depends on the severity of the crash, your injuries, the insurance issues, and whether the other party disputes responsibility.

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

A car accident lawyer helps injured people pursue compensation after a crash.

They may help with:

Investigating the accident
Collecting evidence
Reviewing police reports
Communicating with insurers
Calculating medical bills
Documenting lost wages
Negotiating settlements
Filing a lawsuit if needed
Handling uninsured motorist issues
Working with accident reconstruction experts

A lawyer can be especially helpful when the insurance company is trying to reduce or deny your claim.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

1. Get Medical Help

Your health comes first. Some injuries are obvious right away. Others show up later.

Common delayed symptoms may include:

Neck pain
Back pain
Headaches
Dizziness
Numbness
Shoulder pain
Anxiety
Sleep problems

If you are hurt, seek medical care and follow your doctor’s recommendations.

2. Call the Police

A police report can be important evidence. It may include crash location, driver information, witness details, citations, and the officer’s observations.

3. Take Photos and Videos

If it is safe, document:

Vehicle damage
License plates
Road conditions
Skid marks
Traffic lights
Street signs
Weather
Injuries
Debris
Nearby cameras

Photos can help prove what happened.

4. Exchange Information

Get:

Driver’s name
Insurance information
Phone number
License plate
Vehicle details
Witness names
Witness phone numbers

5. Avoid Admitting Fault

Be polite, but do not guess or apologize in a way that could be used against you later.

Fault is a legal and insurance issue that may require investigation.

When Should You Call a Car Accident Attorney?

You should consider calling a lawyer if:

You were injured
You went to the hospital
You missed work
The other driver blames you
The insurance company delays payment
The insurance company offers a low amount
The crash involved a commercial vehicle
There were multiple cars involved
You may have permanent injuries
The at-fault driver was uninsured
A loved one died in the crash

Minor property-damage-only claims may not always require a lawyer. Injury claims are different.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause:

Whiplash
Back injuries
Neck injuries
Broken bones
Concussions
Traumatic brain injuries
Internal injuries
Knee injuries
Shoulder injuries
Burns
Scarring
Emotional distress

The value of a claim often depends on medical evidence, treatment history, fault, insurance coverage, and long-term impact.

What Compensation May Be Available?

Depending on the case, damages may include:

Medical bills
Future medical treatment
Lost wages
Reduced earning ability
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Rehabilitation costs
Out-of-pocket expenses
Loss of enjoyment of life

Each state has its own rules for damages and fault.

Insurance Company Tactics to Watch For

Insurance companies may:

Ask for recorded statements
Request broad medical authorizations
Offer quick settlements
Dispute injury severity
Blame pre-existing conditions
Delay communication
Argue you were partly at fault
Question treatment gaps

Before accepting a settlement, make sure you understand whether it covers your full damages.

Why Medical Documentation Matters

Medical records connect your injuries to the crash.

Helpful documentation includes:

Emergency room records
Doctor visits
Physical therapy records
Imaging reports
Medication records
Specialist referrals
Pain notes
Work restrictions
Future care recommendations

If you stop treatment too early, the insurance company may argue you were not seriously hurt.

Final Thoughts

A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights after a serious crash.

If you were injured, do not rush into a settlement before understanding your medical condition, lost income, and long-term needs.

The right legal guidance can help you avoid mistakes and deal with the insurance company from a stronger position.