Mining & Investment Policy: Zimbabwe told Australian investors at Africa Down Under that raw ore exports are “yesterday’s game”, pitching smelting, refining and lithium conversion deals while pushing Mines and Minerals Act reforms to strengthen mining rights security and speed up approvals. Beneficiation Results: Government’s ban on raw mineral exports is already lifting lithium earnings, with 2026 lithium concentrate sales up sharply in value as local processing captures more margin. Regional Energy Infrastructure: Zimbabwe and Mozambique broke ground on the Beira-Feruka pipeline Phase II upgrade, raising pumping capacity to boost fuel storage and create a buffer for SADC against supply shocks. Local Mining Skills: ASMZ is pushing to revive and review the mine surveyors’ Certificate of Competence to rebuild a pipeline of qualified professionals. Trade & Consumer Pressure: ZiG scarcity is squeezing spending power as cash shortages and high rates keep demand muted. Retail Recovery: OK Zimbabwe has restarted restocking after banks unlocked credit guarantees, bringing back deliveries from major manufacturers. EU Diplomacy: EU Ambassador Katrin Hagemann died suddenly in Harare, with the EU citing “sudden and unexpected” circumstances. Drug Enforcement (Regional): South Africa police uncovered a third crystal meth lab in under four months, highlighting the risks of remote farm drug manufacturing. Tourism Push: 18 European agencies toured Zimbabwe to build multi-destination packages ahead of Sanganai/Hlanganani 2026.