Zimbabwe

On April 18, 2025, Zimbabwe celebrated its 45th Independence Day—a moment that should brim with pride. Yet, amid the flags and fanfare, a pervasive sense of disillusionment lingers. Corruption runs rampant, political repression remains a grim reality, and economic turmoil casts a long shadow over the nation. For many Zimbabweans, the celebration is bittersweet, marred by recent events that have rendered their struggles painfully visible. As the festivities unfolded, the government demonstrated its commitment to silencing…

A wave of unease washes over both local and international human rights organizations as they grapple with the implications of a newly enacted law in Zimbabwe. Among these watchdogs is Human Rights Watch (HRW), which has raised alarms about the government's recent ability to deregister and confiscate the assets of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) they perceive to be acting in a “politically partisan manner.” Is this a necessary measure for national security, or a veiled attack on civil liberties? The law, known formally…

The tragic loss of Sungura musician Tatenda Pinjisi has ignited a firestorm of indignation regarding Zimbabwe’s ailing healthcare system. This intense response was sparked by a heartbreaking video that captured his desperate pleas for a simple painkiller, all while medical staff resorted to using cellphone flashlights to navigate through the darkness of a power outage. Pinjisi's untimely demise at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital followed a harrowing car accident near the Norton Tollgate as he made his way to Kadoma for a…

OCHA's Staffing Cuts: Navigating Unforeseen Challenges The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, known more commonly as OCHA, has been a vital player in the global humanitarian arena—akin to a beacon guiding aid to regions most in need. Their mission, to ensure that aid is delivered quickly and effectively to crises-stricken populations, is pivotal, especially amidst unfolding natural disasters and escalating conflicts. But with looming budget constraints, can OCHA continue to carry…

In a striking decision that echoes the ongoing tensions in Zimbabwe, a Harare magistrate has resolutely denied bail to 95 individuals accused of orchestrating an anti-government protest on March 31. The magistrate's ruling was clear: these individuals allegedly pose a significant security threat and could potentially re-offend if granted their freedom. Facing charges of unlawful gathering and inciting violence, this group, primarily comprising young activists and opposition supporters, reportedly sought to march towards the…

Picture this: a major economic announcement by the President of the United States, and the world waiting with bated breath. When President Donald Trump introduced a groundbreaking policy resetting the balance of import tariffs, it created more than a ripple—it was a tidal wave across international markets and government corridors. This new strategy, impacting over 180 nations, several of which are African, reflects a significant recalibration in America's approach to global trade. What is the…

Zimbabwe's Bold Trade Strategy: A Look into Tariff Dynamics In the complex world of global trade, decisions often ripple across continents, affecting economies in profound ways. One such decision has recently emerged from Zimbabwe, a nation that now finds itself at the intersection of necessity and adaptability. It has suspended tariffs on American imports, a move that many see as a response not just to a simple policy change, but as a strategic adaptation in light of broader international trade shifts.…

In a significant turn of events, authorities have detained at least 98 individuals linked to an alleged unlawful assembly aimed at inciting unrest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Accusations of attempting to disrupt the established order provide a backdrop to the political turbulence permeating Zimbabwe. These individuals will be held in custody until April 10, a date that looms over their future, as a determination regarding their bail will be made then. The protests have gained traction under the leadership of the…

In anticipation of a looming protest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s prospective bid for a third term, security forces are reported to be on heightened alert. Alarm bells are ringing as individuals rally behind the controversial war veteran, Blessed "Bombshell" Geza. Recently ousted from the ruling Zanu-PF party’s Central Committee, Geza has taken to the airwaves, urging citizens to take to the streets. One might wonder, what drives such fervent dissent? Geza's rhetoric goes beyond mere political disagreement; he…

In a notable shift within Zimbabwe's political landscape, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has named General Anselem Sanyatwe, formerly the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, as the new sports minister. This decision comes in the wake of Kirsty Coventry’s recent election as president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), a role that necessitated her resignation from the ministerial post. Coventry’s transition to this prestigious position in Lausanne, the city synonymous with the Olympic movement, speaks volumes…