ZFN FRIDAY DRINKS

Join Tinashe, Ranga and Rufaro as they explore May Day in the age of AI — and what it means for the future of work. From the relevance of May Day in the age of AI and whether a four-day work week is becoming realistic, how artificial intelligence is reshaping productivity and the future of jobs, the discussion explores what work could look like in the years ahead. Also joining the conversation is Melody Chikono from Investor Hosting Centre (IHC) as they discuss investment in Zimbabwe and Africa. This episode is sponsored by Investor Hosting Center (IHC) Tinashe, Ranga and Rufaro also unpack the relationship between the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and businessman Jayesh Shah, raising questions about how the central bank has navigated liquidity pressures. Why would the central bank be “borrowing” from businessman Jayesh Shah? Finally, we turn to East Africa’s growing investment momentum, with Tanzania emerging as a standout for foreign direct investment—and what Zimbabwe may need to rethink in order to stay competitive.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro as they discuss tobacco farming to fuel pumps, healthcare policy to foreign investment covering the real conversations shaping Zimbabwe’s economy. Ranga shares his experience as a first-time tobacco farmer, navigating low prices and the realities on the ground. The discussion expands into how the tobacco sector is financed, and the evolving role of merchants versus traditional lending. We also unpack the push to separate medical aid societies from service providers, questioning whether regulation is solving a real problem or creating one and where regulators fit into the picture. On the policy front, the conversation explores Zimbabwe’s reserved sectors and local ownership requirements, weighing economic empowerment against investor confidence. Beyond Zimbabwe, Tinashe reflects on his travels, with a look at Mozambique and Tanzania as leading investment destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa—and what their resource-driven growth reveals about the region. A grounded, honest take on policy, markets, and the trade-offs shaping economic decisions. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation — “Share a Coke” and join the conversation.

Join Ranga and Rufaro as they unpack Zimbabwe's economy: Can Zimbabwe hit the IMF's 5% growth target amid policy inconsistent, a debt overhang, and local currency fixation? Key Topics: IMF forecasts 5% GDP growth for 2026—matching government targets, but is it realistic? Washington debt talks: $2.5B bridging finance to clear arrears and unlock funding Monocurrency: 6 failed local currency attempts in 15 years—what's the fixation? Policy inconsistency killing FDI and business confidence. Elon Musk slams South Africa's BEE as "Apartheid 2.0" This episode is sponsored by Dairibord Zimbabwe.

Join Ranga and Rufaro with Noel Mahombera, Chief Business Development Officer at ZIDA (Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency). Discussion insights: How ZIDA is working to attract investment and position Zimbabwe as a premier destination for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (BKPO). They dive deep into: 🔥 Zimbabwe's BPO Potential: Lower labor costs, skilled English-speaking workforce, and emerging call center hubs make Zimbabwe competitive against other global destinations. 🏢 Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Plans for Joina City to become the first SEZ, creating investor-friendly zones with tax incentives and streamlined regulations. 💼 Capital Markets Growth: How ZIDA collaborates with VFEX and ZSE to deepen markets and unlock funding for businesses. ⚠️ Addressing Investment Risks: Policy consistency, property rights protection, and easing currency repatriation challenges that make Zimbabwe less attractive. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation - 'Share a Coke' - and join the conversation.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro as they discuss how the ZiG is fading from the economy and how over 90% of the formal sector runs on the US dollar – with the informal sector effectively at 100%. We ask: how realistic is the mono‑currency? We then turn to energy: independent power producers (IPPs), such as solar projects, rely on long‑term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and government guarantees. But in a high‑sovereign‑risk environment, is banking on a government guarantee actually delusional? What that means for the future solar power projects in Zimbabwe. Finally, we examine fuel: while many governments are cutting fuel taxes to cushion consumers from global price shocks, Zimbabwe has gone the other way, increasing levies and taxes. That pressure is passed straight to the consumer. This week on Friday Drinks, we connect the dots between currency: ZiG, USD, solar projects and fuel taxes – and zero in on who pays the price.

Join Rufaro in conversation with runners at the Nyaradzo @25 Run, which saw an impressive turnout of over 5,000 participants at the SEAL Lifestyle Park in Chishawasha. The run celebrated 25 years of the Nyaradzo Group, bringing together runners and fitness enthusiasts. Rufaro sits down with runners to discuss what motivates and inspires them to keep going.Join Rufaro in conversation with runners at the Nyaradzo @25 Run, which saw an impressive turnout of over 5,000 participants at the SEAL Lifestyle Park in Chishawasha. The run celebrated 25 years of the Nyaradzo Group, bringing together runners and fitness enthusiasts. Rufaro sits down with runners to discuss what motivates and inspires them to keep going.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro in Victoria Falls at Econet InfraCo listing on the VFEX. They unpack what this record-breaking debut means for investors, the economy, and the future of Zimbabwe’s capital markets. With a valuation of US$1 billion, Econet InfraCo marks the largest initial listing in Zimbabwe’s capital markets history. This is sponsored by Delta Corporation - 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation.

Tinashe and Ranga unpack fuel price increases, Zimbabwe’s fuel reserves, the impact of rising costs, and how policy is shaping investor confidence. This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Fuel prices in Zimbabwe have gone up again, just three months into 2026. But authorities say the country still has over three months of fuel in reserve. So why are prices rising, and what does this mean for businesses and ordinary households? This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Tinashe and Ranga also look at what other countries are doing with fuel taxes and reserves, and ask whether Zimbabwe is using its high gold prices and resource base to cushion the economy. We break down the latest fuel shock, imports, policy changes, and what all this tells us about Zimbabwe’s economic direction in 2026. We also look at the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the war happening now, and discuss how global conflicts are pushing up fuel prices and adding more risk to Zimbabwe’s economy.

Join Tinashe as he sits down with Zimbabwe's rugby star turned NFL player TJ Maguranyanga – the second Zimbabwean ever to play in America's premier football league. At just 22, TJ shares his incredible transition from excelling in rugby and the Africa Men's Sevens to signing an NFL contract. Also featuring Paddy Zhanda Jr. from the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) interim management committee. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation - Share a Coke and join the conversation. Sport in Zimbabwean primary schools & the power of parental support. TJ's sporting scholarship at Falcon College & balancing academics and athletics. Why Zimbabwe urgently needs a High-Performance Center. Rugby evolution into a technical game and need for financial backing. Consistency, mental health, and thriving as an elite athlete. NFL professionalism and lessons for young African talents.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro with aviation pioneer Captain Obet Mazinyi, with over 40 years of global flying experience. Captain Obet’s journey training in Zambia, then training at the British Airways School in the UK. Post-independence Air Zimbabwe: Needing 1,000 hours to join a mostly white airline, profitable Harare-London routes, and why Zimbabwe became a major aviation hub as the world opened up. This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Judgment in aviation: Turning hours, experience, and expertise into safe decisions under pressure. Captain Obet's timeless wisdom: "In aviation, the more secrets you keep, the more you endanger others. The more you share, the more advice you give and the safer everyone stays."

🏠 Exploring the realities of Zimbabwe’s real estate and property investment markets, including the challenges and opportunities for both middle- and low-income earners. 👨‍⚖️ Insights into city governance with the analogy that “City Fathers” have failed to live up to their responsibilities. 🏢 The concept of decentralizing urban planning—encouraging local communities like Budiriro, Chitungwiza, and Borrowdale to shape their development and solutions. 🏘 Social housing: Harare City Council’s goal of delivering 50,000 affordable housing units— Is it doable or just a pipe dream? 🏦 "Mattress banking" refers to the habit of keeping savings at home due to mistrust in formal banks. "Mattress bank” earns zero interest. In contrast, investing in property and real estate offers more stability and potential for growth.

Insights on NicozDiamond Insurance journey, transformation, and future outlook in Zimbabwe and the region. Reinsurance in Zimbabwe: Local reinsurers play a vital role in managing insurer risk. Art and personal items insurance: Spectacles and personal items like glasses can be insured. Small claims (e.g., glasses) can be settled within 24 hours at NicozDiamond. Education and skills challenge: Half-hearted commitment from some graduates and lack of practical training affect industry quality. The informal sector is a target for growth, with insurers developing products (micro/macro insurance) to include more Zimbabweans in insurance coverage. Funny and fraudulent claims: Unique cases like “dog biting car tires” highlight the need for AI-based fraud detection. AI is transforming the industry by flagging fake claims and improving efficiency.

📊 Budget shows projected 6% GDP growth, driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and mining. Despite positive figures, no meaningful policy shift from the previous budget—missed opportunity. 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe’s economy remains 76% informal—a major structural weakness 🏭 Manufacturing is now the largest formal sector contributor (15% of GDP) 📈 Treasury Bills (TBs) remain unpaid, raising questions about government credibility. ⚡Power constraints remain a serious threat to productivity in industry and mining ⚠️The numbers look good on paper, but the real economy tells a different story

Misalignment between the Central Bank and Treasury. Without coordinated fiscal and monetary policy, confidence in the economy remains fragile. Central Bank says they're not printing ZiG while Treasury claims discipline and strong collections. But is the market buying it? Debate around the ZiG currency—its gold backing, official exchange rate of 1:26, and why that rate may not reflect reality. Growing trust deficit—not just among exporters and consumers, but even among banks and regulators. Silence from exporters: Why aren’t they speaking out about delayed ZiG payments owed to them by the government? Competition is good. The biggest beneficiary of competition between Starlink, SmartBiz, and Econet in Zimbabwe’s internet market is the consumer.

"Welcome to Friday Drinks! 🍷 This week, Dziya (Ranga Makwata) and Mukanya (Tinashe Murapata) hold it down while Shumba (Rufaro G Zengeni) battles the flu. We dive deep into: 🔥 ZESA’s $10 Billion Power Crisis – Can Zimbabwe end blackouts? 🔥 Leadership Failures – From village Sabukus to national corruption 🔥 Diaspora Divide – Why UK Zimbabweans invest more than SA-based ones 🔥 Entrepreneurs vs Tenderpreneurs – Who’s REALLY building Zimbabwe? 🔥 Health & Winter Colds – Ginger, lemon & whiskey remedies! Join the debate! 👇 Comment your thoughts: Should Zimbabwe dollarize electricity? Can diasporans fix Zim’s economy? Is village mentality holding Zimbabwe back? Like, Share & Subscribe for raw, unfiltered discussions every Friday!

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro as they unpack the week’s biggest economic stories - Econet’s delisting from the ZSE, ban on lithium and raw mineral exports, and the latest monetary policy moves—including the shift toward a mono‑currency, the 35% policy rate, and the push for the market to set the exchange rate. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation - 'Share a Coke' - and join the conversation. Econet’s delisting from the ZSE and what it means for investors and the capital market. Tinashe, Rufaro and Rufaro analyse the government’s ban on lithium and all raw mineral exports, including the impact on miners and global supply chains. The latest monetary policy: the good and the bad. The shift toward a mono‑currency, the 35% policy rate. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Friday Drinks for weekly in‑depth analysis of Zimbabwe’s business and economy.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro as they discuss key topics shaping today’s world. We take a deep dive into beneficiation and the importance of accessing the right markets. Zimbabwe’s agricultural potential: fertile soils for tobacco farming and emerging opportunities in medical cannabis cultivation. Zimbabwe tea used in blending and exported worldwide. Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) makes a strong move by expanding into South Africa with a US$5.6 million purchase of a property in Cape Town’s CBD. RTG needs focused strategy and flawless delivery to succeed. Explore updates and changes at the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) Ranga gives expert tips on maximizing AI benefits and using AI to generate analyst and economic reports. And how to avoid common pitfalls in analyst reporting. Learn how to effectively work with AI tools and understand their limitations. lnsightful geopolitical discussion on Russia-Ukraine peace talks and the Alaska meeting. Plus, a fun historical fact from Rufaro: Russia sold Alaska to the US in 1867 for $7.2 million — less than 2 cents an acre.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro for an exclusive episode featuring Chris Mugaga, CEO of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC). Is Zimbabwe in a crisis? Question from Tinashe to ZNCC: Is the government engaging with the business sector? ZNCC is actively raising concerns about the electricity crisis with the government. Approximately 60% of ZESA’s budget is allocated to administrative costs rather than to maintenance and infrastructure improvements, which negatively impacts electricity reliability. Solutions: Increased private-sector participation in the electricity sector as a potential solution to the ongoing electricity crisis. This includes recommending the removal or easing of certain regulations that hinder private investment. Delta loses US$74 million tax battle with ZIMRA. High taxation combined with currency complexity is creating a challenging environment for business growth and investment in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s informal sector accounts for approximately 76% of the country’s economic activity, posing a significant challenge for tax revenue and formal business growth. Corruption: Goods enter Zimbabwe illegally through corrupt border practices, undermining local businesses and distorting market competition.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro on this episode with our new sponsor, O'mari Zimbabwe, as we discuss key topics - gold prices surge, gold is seen as the trusted “old money." Clear, investor-friendly policies are crucial for Zimbabwe to double gold production. Zimbabwe has immense potential to significantly increase its gold production and become a major global supplier. Doubling gold output would attract foreign currency, create jobs, and boost economic stability. Government efforts to slash farming and livestock license fees and taxes, easing business burdens and boosting productivity. Positive step from the government’s reforms in agriculture, but more action is needed. Zimbabwe still faces a heavy regulatory burden with overlapping licenses and costly compliance, diverting resources from productivity. The cost of complying with tax rules in Zimbabwe can be high, especially for small businesses. Old Mutual and PPC shares have been suspended from trading on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) since June 2020 due to concerns about fungible shares. The suspension has still negatively affected the market by trapping capital, limiting liquidity, and reducing investor confidence. Bitcoin and cryptocurrency set to be the new frontier in 2025, with many experts advising continued buying. Econet’s launch of SmartSuite data bundles - still needs a balance between innovation and affordability is necessary for wider acceptance and sustained growth.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro on our episode as they discuss US Republicans proposed bill on removal of ZIDERA, Zimbabwe - US Relations, the $3.5 billion debt to white commercial farmers, the crucial Paris Club debt, and Zimbabwe's energy sector: the $455 million Jindal Steel - Hwange power plant deal. Republicans proposed bill to repeal ZIDERA, signaling a potential reset in ties. The importance of paying the $3.5 billion debt to white commercial farmers’ to unlock US sanctions relief and economic opportunities. Zimbabwe’s Paris Club debt and its critical role in re-entering the global financial market. The $455 million concession deal with India’s Jindal Steel to refurbish Hwange power plant, addressing Zimbabwe’s energy crisis. Analysis of the Jindal deal’s benefits and risks for Zimbabwe’s power supply and economic recovery. Uganda’s strong IMF report, low corruption levels, and better credit risk profile. The future outlook for Zimbabwe’s economy amid ongoing reforms and international diplomacy.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro for this insightful episode discussing white farmers’ compensation with Andy Pascoe and Harry Orphanides. The US Republicans proposed bill pressing Zimbabwe to pay the US$3.5 billion debt owed to farmers. This episode is sponsored by O'Mari Zimbabwe. The proposed bill to repeal ZIDERA is conditional on settling compensation within 12 months; farmers and stakeholders consider this timeframe too short. Zimbabwe has been locked out of international capital markets since 1999 after defaulting on debt owed to lenders including the World Bank, the Paris Club, and the African Development Bank. About 1,000 white farmers signed up for the Farmers Compensation Agreement (FCA). Zimbabwe’s treasury bonds have a poor track record, often defaulted or discounted, affecting farmer confidence. International underwriting of bonds is suggested to improve trust and payment reliability. Future of farming in Zimbabwe: Farming business margins are slim due to high production costs and heavy regulatory burdens. Many small-scale farmers shifted to tobacco farming, causing maize production to decline and maize imports to rise. Farming in Zimbabwe continues despite challenges like erratic climate, land tenure issues, limited access to technology, and infrastructure gaps.

Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro dive into the significance of the Dangote Group’s visit to Zimbabwe. Discover what this means for the country’s business landscape and future opportunities. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation. 'Share a Coke' with friends, and enjoy the conversation.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro for an unfiltered discussion on Zimbabwe's draft Constitutional Amendment Bill. They dive deep into the geopolitics of presidential term extensions, unpack political and institutional risks, and question if Parliament is strong enough to hold power accountable. From frequent regulatory changes scaring investors away, to Zimbabwe's untapped commodity riches, to our cultural hangover around celebrating success. Discussion about the elephant in the room: politics driving (or derailing) the economy. This episode is proudly sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Will 7-year cycles bring policy stability and economic growth? Or just more uncertainty for business? How do investors actually measure political risk? Political Risk Exposed: Debate on institutional strength. Commodity Goldmine: Zimbabwe should cash in.

Insightful review of Zimbabwe’s 2026 national budget with Tinashe and Ranga joined by Prof Gift Mugano. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation. 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation. Examination of Zimbabwe’s rebased nominal GDP of $52 billion and why it does not reflect real growth or poverty reduction. Analysis of $1.7 billion accumulated expenditure arrears impacting government contracts and services Breakdown of fiscal challenges including unpaid statutory payments to pensions, War Veterans, and savings funds. Exploring the disconnect between macroeconomic figures and citizens’ lived economic hardships. Consequences of budget underperformance on private sector confidence and inflation pressures.

Join Tinashe and Rufaro in an exclusive conversation with Permanent Secretary Mr. George Guvamatanga - Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion. Dive into hot topics like the newly proposed gold royalties—where Zimbabwe risked the highest rates in Africa, prompting a promised revisit and miner-friendly adjustments. This insightful episode is proudly sponsored by Delta Corporation— 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation. Unpack the controversy over $60 million in unapproved, unbudgeted car hire spending amid budget pressures and cost-cutting directives. Plus, insights on government service: "You don't go into government; you are called and appointed to serve your country," says Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga.

Welcome to the first Friday Drinks episode of 2026 with Tinashe, Ranga and Rufaro where we dive into the escalating geopolitical risks putting state sovereignty back on the global agenda. Zimbabweans overtaxed, debates on writing off Treasury Bills and sovereign debt, we unpack Zimbabwe's budget battles amid "pockets of hope" as Ranga puts it. This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe..

Join Tinashe and Rufaro with Advocate Simba Chitando unpacking ZDERA and the legal challenges around Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP). Advocate Simba Chitando discusses his pro bono work with undocumented migrants in South Africa. Activism and advocacy are core to Chitando's fight for migrant rights. This episode challenges borders, sanctions, and what makes the law legitimate. "What makes law, law?" - Tinashe's big question. ZDERA has failed its democracy/rule of law goals after 24 years. Sponsored by Delta Corporation - 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation.

Join Tinashe, Ranga, and Rufaro for an insightful discussion on making Zimbabwe great and making Zimbabwe work. Drawing from Carl Jung's wisdom on life's first half (socialization and ego-building) versus the second (self-actualization) and Tinashe's take on how we can make Zimbabwe work, retain and absorb our talent and graduates at home, so migration abroad isn't the only path, we explore career paths beyond university—trade schools as strong options as entry gets tougher. This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Making Zimbabwe work: Retain our talent and graduates, so migration to the US or abroad isn't the only path—build local opportunities instead. Let's stop exporting our brightest: Fix home with skills, economy, and policies for a thriving future. Making Zimbabwe great: Harness record gold production highs, strong tobacco industry, and soaring gold prices to open markets, attract investments, and create jobs. Global insights from Davos on the AI-driven Fourth Industrial Revolution, and how Zimbabwe can compete by unlocking its vast potential.

Join Tinashe, Ranga and Rufaro as they discuss the pension funds crisis, capital markets pressures, ZiG inflation hitting single digits, and gold bugs vs skeptics. This episode is sponsored by Delta Corporation - 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation. Over 50% of Zimbabwe's pension funds faced dissolution last year – what's really happening in the industry that never recovered from 2008 hyperinflation? Employers deducting contributions but not remitting them? ZiG year-on-year inflation hits historic single digits at 4.1% in January 2026 – but is it real stability? Ranga says: "The universe of things ZiG can buy is getting smaller." Central bank heavy-handed liquidity controls, miners unpaid 30% of dues, and ZiG not fully fungible. Gold prices soaring amid geopolitical tensions – central banks stacking reserves. Zimbabwe's golden opportunity as a top gold producer to boost output and reserves... or will it slip away?

Join Tinashe, Ranga, Rufaro and Fincent Capital independent financial advisors for the Econet delisting from the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and InfraCo listing on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX). We break down why undervaluation, overregulation, local currency risks, and policy uncertainty are driving companies away from ZSE—plus what Over-the-Counter (OTC) trading means post-delisting. This episode is sponsored by O'mari Zimbabwe. Econet's ZSE delisting explained: Undervaluation, low liquidity, and regulatory hurdles. VFEX as the new frontier for USD-denominated listings. OTC trading basics: What happens to shares after delisting. Why ZSE shares struggle as bank collateral in Zimbabwe. Macro factors: Overregulation and chasing away investors. Zimbabwe's mineral investment boom — underexplored potential. How to rebuild your savings: Emergency funds, diversification, and long-term strategies.

Join Tinashe and Ranga live in studio with special guest Cde Fatso as they unpack innovation, startups, creative hubs like Moto Republik and Magamba Network, and using comedy and satire as tools for innovation. From GDP growth that doesn't reach ordinary Zimbabweans, to calls for real direct democracy over "socialism for the rich and austerity for the poor," says Cde Fatso this raw conversation questions who controls media and how creatives can build viable careers while pushing for change. Why businesses must support the arts, how Zambezi News and Shoko Festival started, and Cde Fatso's vision for ecosystems over solo artistry. Sponsored by Delta Corporation – 'Share a Coke' and join the conversation. Moto Republik & Magamba: Building creative ecosystems. Political satire: Zambezi News, Shoko Festival, comedy nights. GDP myth: 6.6% growth not trickling down. Real democracy: Direct power for ordinary people. Viable comedy careers in Zimbabwe. Artists & mental health: Overcoming drug addiction and depression.

Prospects for 2024/25 farming season, legacy debt & Steve Hankie inflation view.