A newly formed group calling itself TopSoup4ED has sparked debate within political and civic circles amid questions over its objectives and links to existing 4ED affiliates aligned with Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party.
The group, whose name is derived from the popular “4ED” movement brand, reportedly comprises females who say they want to promote national development through entrepreneurship, social empowerment and youth mobilisation.
However, its sudden emergence has drawn mixed reactions, with some supporters praising it as a fresh initiative to drive community-based projects, while others accuse it of wicked behaviour and manipulative actions.
The group said in a notice that it seeks to “celebrate” national achievements and motivate young Zimbabweans towards personal development and patriotism.
Dressed in the movement’s branded clothing and symbols, members emphasised pride, confidence and fashion as part of their youth-driven expression.
The group stated that its approach blends modern pop culture elements with civic engagement, appealing particularly to young women and digital audiences.
In the statement, TopSoup4ED pushed back against online speculation suggesting links to immoral behaviour or exploitative activities, insisting that its mission is based on dignity, respect, and positive representation.
“We do not associate with anyone promoting indecent images or conduct while claiming to be part of our group,” the statement read, stressing that members are selected based on shared values and behaviour standards.
- TopSoup4ED causes stir
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The group also said it remains focused on supporting development narratives and national progress messaging, while opposing what it described as “fake narratives” and attempts to discredit its goals.
Social media platforms have been awash with speculation about the group’s founders and whether it has the official blessing of the ruling party’s leadership.
Last Friday another “4ED” affiliate — Updates4ED — distanced itself from TopSoup4ED, accusing it of trivialising women’s empowerment and reducing women to political ornaments rather than recognising them as equal partners in nation-building.
In a strongly-worded statement, Updates4ED expressed “deep concern” over the programme, saying its approach contradicts national values and the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
The organisation dismissed TopSoup4ED as “exploitation wrapped in party slogans” and criticised what it described as attempts to objectify women under the guise of empowerment.
“True empowerment is not about branding or publicity stunts. It is about creating meaningful opportunities for women,” Updates4ED said, emphasising education, economic inclusion and leadership development as genuine empowerment pillars.
According to Updates4ED, such initiatives insult Zimbabwean women by reducing them to political symbols rather than acknowledging their role in national development.
The group urged the immediate termination of TopSoup4ED and called on stakeholders to align empowerment programmes with dignity, integrity and inclusivity.
Updates4ED reiterated its commitment to substantive empowerment programmes and warned against efforts that “undermine the spirit of equality and progress” championed in government development plans.
“Zimbabwean women deserve genuine empowerment — not exploitation dressed in party colours,” the statement added.
However, TopSoup4ED had to hit back saying no other affiliate had the power to terminate another affiliate, maintaining that their undertaking was based on self-respect, deference and positive representation.
The development marks an unusual public clash within the 4ED ecosystem, highlighting rising tensions over the political use of women’s initiatives ahead of ongoing national mobilisation drives.
Sources close said the establishment of TopSoup4ED has triggered discussions about overlapping roles with existing formations such as Young Women4ED, Journalists4ED, MenBelievED, Teachers4ED and Pastors4ED.
Social media platforms have been awash with speculation about the group’s founders and whether it has the official blessing of the ruling party’s leadership.
A local political analyst said the rise of numerous “4ED” movements reflects a broader trend of political branding that often blurs the line between civic activism and partisan mobilisation.
“Many of these groups claim to support national policies, but their coordination and purpose remain unclear,” the analyst said. “The challenge is ensuring they add real value to communities rather than just political noise.”
Since its formation, the TopSoup4ED movement has faced severe social media backlash.
“What is TopSoup4ED? Is that what the party of Herbert Chitepo, Joshua Nkomo and George Silundika has become?” posted politician and lawyer Fadzayi Mahere on her Facebook page.
Efforts to get comment from Zanu PF officials were unsuccessful by the time of publication, but party insiders privately acknowledged growing concern over the proliferation of unsanctioned affiliate groups.
A senior ruling party member, who requested anonymity, said such movements risk “causing confusion and misrepresentation of the party’s vision.”
“Everyone wants to associate with the ED brand, but there must be proper coordination,” the source said. “Otherwise, it becomes chaotic.”
The 4ED brand — derived from the slogan “For Economic Development” — has inspired dozens of sector-based groups that pledge support for Mnangagwa’s government and Vision 2030 agenda.
TopSoup4ED is believed to have been formed in late October, with its organisers claiming the name reflects “the best of the best” in supporting economic transformation.
As debate continues, observers say the group’s activities in the coming weeks will determine whether it becomes a credible civic partner or another short-lived political fad.
