Ministry of Justice, Legal & Parliamentary Affairs

News Update: Five Commissioners Take Their Oath A total of five Commissioners officially assumed office after taking their oaths in a ceremony presided over by the Chief Justice, Hon. E. Gwaunza. The swearing in was attended by the Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs. Vimbai Nyemba, along with other senior Government officials. The newly sworn in Commissioners are: Dr Noah Maringe Mr Valentine Mutatu Mr Lison Ncube Mr Bothwell Nyajeka Ms Alice Chipo Nyamugama The Commissioners’ oath taking marks the beginning of their mandate to serve in their respective roles.

Breaking: WCC Applauds Government on Justice, Peace and Reconciliation Harare, New Government Complex: A delegation from the World Council of Churches (WCC) led by Rev Pillay, met the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Hon Ziyambi Ziyambi, in a closed door courtesy engagement focused largely on justice sector matters, while also touching on broader national concerns. The delegation alongside representatives from the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) used the meeting to exchange views on key issues affecting Zimbabwe’s judicial system, as well as the role of faith communities in sustaining social harmony. Speaking in a side interview after meeting the Minister following the WCC delegation’s earlier engagement with His Excellency, the President Cde E.D Mnangagwa yesterday, the Secretary General, Rev Pillay, praised Government’s work and highlighted perceived progress in the justice system. “We are quite impressed to know that you have a judiciary system that is accessible to the people and Zimbabwe is peaceful because you have a good judiciary system at work,” Rev Pillay said. Hon Ziyambi Ziyambi, in turn, recognized the contribution of churches in Zimbabwe and pointed to areas of cooperation between the ZCC and the WCC particularly in promoting peace and reconciliation. “We have talked about areas of collaboration between the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and the World Council of Churches in terms of peace and reconciliation and we are there for collaboration as the work of churches is to ensure harmony in the country and they have helped us achieve that,” the Minister said. Among the key matters deliberated during the session, Rev Pillay said the discussion covered the independence of the judiciary, freedom of religion and adherence to constitutional processes. The meeting underscored continued dialogue between Government and faith based institutions, with both sides indicating a shared interest in strengthening justice sector governance while supporting efforts aimed at national unity.

Zimbabwe Charts a New IP Future with WIPO Geneva: The Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Mrs Vimbai Nyemba yesterday used a key bilateral engagement with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to reaffirm the country’s long standing partnership and highlight progress in strengthening its intellectual property (IP) system. In her remarks delivered to WIPO Director General Mr Daren Tang, Mrs V Nyemba expressed appreciation for WIPO’s sustained technical support, noting that assistance has helped modernise the country’s Intellectual Property Office through the Industrial Property Administration System (IPAS). The programme, including data capturing, data validation and verification, has improved the efficiency, reliability and public accessibility of IP services. The delegation also pointed to WIPO support for the Chipinge Coffee Geographical Indication (GI) Project, describing it as a flagship initiative that helps unlock economic value, supports producers and contributes to rural development. Beyond industrial property and GIs, Zimbabwe further welcomed WIPO’s help in strengthening trademark administration and expanding IP awareness, citing initiatives such as the IP Schools Clubs Programme and broader institutional capacity building. Zimbabwe is advancing reforms to strengthen its national IP framework, including the review of its National Intellectual Property Policy and Implementation Strategy to align with technological advances and evolving innovation systems. The Government also indicated progress on the Geographical Indications Amendment Bill and related regulations, while preparing for participation in the Lisbon and Hague Systems. While concluding her remarks, the Permanent Secretary appealed for WIPO’s continued partnership, including technical support to complete office digitization, deploy additional IPAS modules and enhance institutional capacity. She also requested further assistance to support GI registration, commercialization, producer capacity development, and the establishment of sustainable governance structures, including an intended Geographical Indications Examination Training Workshop in March 2027. Zimbabwe values its cooperation with WIPO and looks forward to deepening efforts to ensure IP drives innovation, industrialisation, inclusive economic growth, and sustainable development particularly through IP-enabled value chains benefiting rural communities, agricultural producers, women and youth.

Breaking News: Constitutional Amendment No. 3 has become law after His Excellency, the President, Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa signed it into law.

Deputy Minister Commends Graduands as ZPCS Strengthens Correctional Leadership During the Management and Leadership Development Course graduation today, Hon. N.T. Mazungunye recognized the dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence demonstrated by the ZPCS graduands in correctional leadership. In his address, he commended the graduates for their willingness to help transform the institution, noting that leadership development remains one of the most important investments any organization can make. He said that through programs such as this, the ZPCS continues to nurture competent, innovative and results driven leaders capable of responding to the evolving demands of modern corrections, upholding international best practices and aligning institutional operations with the country’s development agenda. Hon Mazungunye also emphasized that because the ZPCS focuses on offender rehabilitation, the timing and value of the training could not be better. He added that a well-trained, disciplined and visionary workforce strengthens rehabilitation outcomes by equipping graduands with the decision-making skills needed to lead effectively in an increasingly complex correctional environment. He further highlighted that the course covered disciplines including social sciences, civic education, entrepreneurship and business management, as well as offender rights and management, among other key areas. He also commended the Staff College for enhancing the quality and credibility of its training programme through strategic partnerships with institutions of higher learning such as Chinhoyi University of Technology, Zimbabwe Open University and other state institutions. In his concluding remarks, Hon Mazungunye urged the graduands to demonstrate tangible results from the investment made in their development. He said, “We expect stronger leadership, improved discipline, innovative problem solving, better management of resources, enhanced teamwork and improved service delivery.” Family members and friends were present to celebrate this joyful milestone one marked by shared happiness and gladness.

The Deputy Minister Hon N.T Mazungunye has arrived for the graduation ceremony of Management and Leadership Development Course and Corrections number 9 at Chikurubi Damview Resort. He is accompanied by the Permanent Secretary Mrs Vimbai Nyemba. He is expected to address the graduates and present certificates. @ZPCS_PR @HeraldZimbabwe

Stakeholder Talks on Proposed Sex Offenders Register System Opens The Government of Zimbabwe has officially opened a stakeholder consultation workshop aimed at examining the possible establishment of a Sex Offenders Register System in the country, with the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Mrs V. Nyemba, calling for evidence based law reform focused on protecting vulnerable people while respecting constitutional rights. Addressing senior government officials, members of the judiciary, representatives of the ZRP, ZPCS, Independent Commissions and CSO’s at Monomotapa Hotel in Harare today, Mrs Nyemba said the effectiveness of any legal system should be measured not only by the laws it enacts, but by the justice it delivers. “The question before us is therefore not simply whether we should establish a Sex Offenders Register. Rather, it is whether such a system would strengthen the protection of vulnerable persons, support the administration of justice & enhance public confidence while remaining fully consistent with our laws” PS said. Senior Magistrate F. Mtombeni endorsed the initiative during a side interview, describing the initiative as a “noble cause” adding that a register should not be treated as a mere bureaucratic exercise, but rather as part of a moral & protective response to harm. “In court, the consequences of sexual violence are not only legal but deeply human. If the register is properly designed, it can strengthen accountability and offer reassurance that society is protecting victims seriously”. Director Child Care Mrs R. Moyo supported the cause by adding that the register has the capacity to reduce recidivism by tracking offenders to avoid reoffending. With participants from key justice sectors in the process, the Government signalled its commitment to a consultative approach to tackling sexual violence and strengthening protection for vulnerable communities. @CARL @PoliceZimbabwe @ZPCS_PR @lawsocietyofzim @UNICEFZIMBABWE @CALR_

The Law Development Commission has concluded its Marriages Act awareness programme in Umzingwane District, Esigodini, as part of ongoing efforts to deepen legal understanding in communities & strengthen legal certainty across families. The closing engagements, held yesterday, were attended by local Chiefs and members of the security services including the Zimbabwe Republic Police @ZRP_Zim & Zimbabwe Prisons and Corrections. The programme brought together community leadership and residents for constructive discussions on rights & responsibilities under the Marriages Act 5.17. In his welcome remarks, DDC Mr Mahlatini described the programme as vital for the Umzingwane community, praising the Ministry’s commitment. He emphasised that marriage binds families & communities, & its promotion increases legal certainty. “Strong marriages build strong communities,” noting that such communities are key for NDS2 as they foster respect for the rule of law and promote a just society. He thanked the LDC for bringing legal awareness to the people & urged participants to engage constructively. During the engagement, Ms Mhene (Law Officer) unpacked the Marriages Act, stressing that the law safeguards personal choice & protects vulnerable persons. She emphasised that no one should be compelled to marry against their will and warned that anyone who forces minors into marriage will be prosecuted with penalties attracting prison terms. In a side interview, Director LDC Ms N Zvakasikwa highlighted the importance of continued public awareness, underscoring the need to correct misconceptions and ensure communities understand the law as intended so that justice is promoted & protected. Participants were urged to carry the message forward, supporting a society where marriages are concluded lawfully, rights are respected and the rule of law is strengthened.

She highlighted that the victim friendly services, specialised courts, police Victim Friendly Units, Legal Aid & specialized courts have intensified community engagement and women’s empowerment programmes to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence. #HRC62 #EndGBV

“Zim has strengthened its legal & policy frameworks to prevent & respond to domestic violence against women & girls, in line with constitutional & international human rights obligations,” PS V. Nyemba said at the ongoing 62nd Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switz

Law provisions to Maphisa Yesterday, the Law Development Commission brought practical, factual legal knowledge to Maphisa in MatSouth, covering Marriages Law; Property & Inheritance Rights. The initiative enabled residents to interact with the Ministry making justice accessible

'Ayes' 216 'Noes' 42 216 MPs having voted in favour, number of affirmative votes in support of CAB3 , breaches the 187 mark which was needed to garner the 2/3 majority. Therefore the Hon Speaker has announced that CAB3 has been passed by the National Assembly. Bill now awaits transmission to the Senate

We celebrate a key diplomatic milestone! The Ministry extends heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, on Zimbabwe’s appointment to the United Nations Security Council.

The SADC meeting of Ministers/Attorneys General concludes today, with Member states urged to expedite the ratification of legal texts and translate them into practical measures that deliver tangible benefits to citizens and businesses in Southern Africa.

All is set for the official opening ceremony of the Meeting of the Committee of SADC Ministers of Justice/ Attorneys General Dialogue will take center stage, adoptions will be made & commitments will be reaffirmed as the region pursues justice across the region. @SADC_News

Parliament Today: Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 What is a First Reading? The First Reading is the formal introduction of a Bill in Parliament.

PS Mrs. V Nyemba officially welcomed delegates to the 44th SADC Meeting of Senior Officials of the Committee of Ministers of Justice/Attorneys General, describing the gathering as a pivotal moment for advancing justice, good governance &regional cooperation across Southern Africa

Official Opening of the Senior Officials of the Committee of Ministers of Justice/Attorneys General! Countries including South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, Eswatini, Lesotho, Angola, Seychelles and others forming the quorum.