About 30 000 pupils in Zimbabwe have been affected by the government’s decision to close private schools after accusing them of increasing fees without state approval. Armed police officers were deployed to 45 private schools throughout the country to ensure that they did not open for classes on Tuesday.

In an effort to cope with worsening humanitarian conditions in Zimbabwe, the United Nations is seeking additional funds to support relief efforts through to the end of the year. The request, a revision of the Consolidated Appeal launched in July, focuses on strengthening social service delivery, supporting the country’s recovery and tackling HIV/Aids.