ZIMBABWE

Date of establishment: April 18, 1980

Brief history:

Antiquity: The area now known as Zimbabwe has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric settlements. The most significant ancient civilization was the Kingdom of Great Zimbabwe, which thrived from the 11th to the 15th centuries and was known for its impressive stone structures, including the Great Zimbabwe ruins.

Colonization: In the late 19th century, British colonization of the area began under the leadership of Cecil Rhodes and his British South Africa Company. The territory was named Southern Rhodesia after Rhodes in 1895 and became a British Crown colony in 1923.

1953: Southern Rhodesia merged with Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Nyasaland (now Malawi) to form the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. The federation was primarily an economic union and lasted until its dissolution in 1963 due to growing nationalist movements and demands for independence from African populations.

1965: Southern Rhodesia’s predominantly white minority government, led by Ian Smith, unilaterally declared independence from the United Kingdom, naming the state Rhodesia. This Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) was deemed illegal by the international community, leading to widespread economic sanctions and political isolation.

1970: The Rhodesian government declared itself a republic and introduced a new constitution aimed at maintaining white minority rule, despite growing internal resistance and international condemnation.

1979-1980: Following a protracted guerrilla war known as the Rhodesian Bush War or the Second Chimurenga, and the Lancaster House Agreement, elections were held. In 1980, Zimbabwe achieved recognized independence with Robert Mugabe becoming the country’s first prime minister and later, president.

2000: Zimbabwe entered a period of severe political and economic turmoil. The government initiated a controversial land reform program that led to the seizure of land from white farmers, resulting in a sharp decline in agricultural production, economic collapse, and hyperinflation. These issues were exacerbated by political repression and human rights abuses.

2017: Robert Mugabe resigned after 37 years in power following a military intervention and mounting pressure from within his own party, the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), as well as from the public. His resignation sparked hope for political and economic change.

2018: Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mugabe’s former deputy, was elected President, promising political and economic reforms. However, his tenure has been marked by continued economic challenges and political unrest, with reforms being slower and less comprehensive than many had hoped.

 

 

 

International abbreviation: ZW

 

Currency: Zimbabwe dollar (ZWL),

Zimbabwe’s monetary system has undergone significant changes over the years, particularly during periods of severe economic instability. One of the most notable challenges was the hyperinflation that plagued the country in the late 2000s. During this period, the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWD) rapidly lost its value, rendering banknotes—some printed with astronomical denominations up to 100 trillion dollars—effectively worthless.

As a result of the hyperinflation crisis, the Zimbabwean dollar was abandoned in 2009. The country adopted a multi-currency system, with foreign currencies such as the US dollar, South African rand, and later the British pound and the euro, becoming widely used as legal tender.

In 2019, the Zimbabwean dollar was reintroduced as the official currency under a new currency system, often referred to as the “ZWL” to distinguish it from the previous Zimbabwean dollar. This move was part of the government’s efforts to regain monetary sovereignty and stabilize the economy. However, the reintroduction has faced challenges, including continued inflation and public skepticism.

The newly reintroduced Zimbabwean dollar includes both coins and banknotes. As of the reintroduction, banknotes have been issued in denominations of ZWL $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Coins have been issued in smaller denominations, including ZWL 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as ZWL $1 and $2. However, the value of these denominations has fluctuated significantly due to ongoing inflation.

 

Internet domain: .zw

 

Dialing code: +263

 

Time zone: GMT +2

 

Geography:

Zimbabwe’s geography is diverse, featuring a variety of landscapes, from highland areas to broad river valleys. The eastern part of the country is bordered by the Eastern Highlands, a mountain range that forms part of the Eastern African Rift System, though it is not directly connected to the Great Rift Valley. This region is home to some of Zimbabwe’s highest peaks, including Mount Nyangani, Bvumba Mountains, and Chimanimani Mountains. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country.

The central part of Zimbabwe is dominated by a high plateau known as the Zimbabwean Highveld. This plateau, which averages around 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) above sea level, is characterized by open, grassy plains and gentle hills. The region’s fertile soils make it suitable for agriculture, particularly for crops such as maize and tobacco. This area is also where Zimbabwe’s major cities, including the capital, Harare, and Bulawayo, are located.

The most important river in Zimbabwe is the Zambezi, which forms the northern border with Zambia. The Zambezi River is famous for the Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Other significant rivers include the Limpopo River, which forms the southern border with South Africa, and the Save (or Sabi) River, which flows through the southeastern part of the country. These rivers are vital for agriculture, hydroelectric power, and wildlife habitats.

 

Highest peak: Nyangani 2 592 m (8 504 feet) above sea level.

Mount Nyangani is located in the Eastern Highlands in the east of the country in Nyanga National Park, which is also known for its waterfalls and mountain lakes.

 

Climate:

Zimbabwe experiences a subtropical climate, which is generally divided into a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season typically runs from November to March. During this period, the country receives most of its annual rainfall, which is influenced by moist air masses from the Indian Ocean. Rainfall is generally heavier in the eastern regions, particularly in the Eastern Highlands, where orographic lift causes increased precipitation. The rainy season is also characterized by warmer temperatures, with average daytime highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) across much of the country.

From April to October, Zimbabwe experiences its dry season. This period is marked by minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures, especially during the winter months of June to August. Average daytime temperatures during the dry season vary depending on altitude and region. In the central plateau areas, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while in the low-lying regions, such as the Zambezi and Limpopo valleys, temperatures can be higher, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). In the mountainous regions of the Eastern Highlands, temperatures are generally lower, particularly at night, where they can drop to around 10°C (50°F) or lower during the coldest months.

The eastern part of the country, including the Eastern Highlands, has a milder and more temperate climate compared to the rest of Zimbabwe. This region experiences higher rainfall during the rainy season and generally cooler temperatures throughout the year, with average daytime highs ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) during the rainy season and slightly cooler during the dry season.

 

Fauna and flora:

Zimbabwe is home to the “Big Five” African mammals: elephants, rhinoceroses, lions, leopards, and buffalo. These iconic species are a major draw for safaris and wildlife viewing in the country’s numerous national parks. Zimbabwe boasts one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with significant herds found in national parks such as Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, and Gonarezhou National Park.

Rhinoceroses, both white and black, are critically endangered due to poaching and habitat loss. Zimbabwe plays a crucial role in rhino conservation, with efforts concentrated in areas like Matobo National Park and private conservancies, where intense anti-poaching measures and breeding programs are in place to protect and increase their populations.

In addition to lions and leopards, Zimbabwe’s wildlife includes other large predators such as spotted hyenas and African wild dogs (also known as painted wolves). The African wild dog, in particular, is one of the continent’s most endangered predators, and Zimbabwe is a key area for their conservation, especially in Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks.

Zimbabwe is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 670 recorded species of birds. The country is known for its diverse avian life, including species such as the African fish eagle, lilac-breasted roller, and various species of hornbills. Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and other national parks offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Most of Zimbabwe is covered by savannah, characterized by a mix of grasslands and scattered trees. Typical savannah trees include acacias and baobabs, the latter being particularly iconic with their massive trunks and longevity.

 

Agriculture:

Agriculture in Zimbabwe is a vital sector of the economy, involving the cultivation of a wide variety of crops and the raising of livestock. The primary crops include cereals such as maize (corn), which is the staple food and forms the basis of the diet for the majority of the population. Other important crops include wheat and barley, as well as cash crops like tobacco, cotton, sugar cane, coffee, and citrus fruits. Tobacco is one of Zimbabwe’s most significant export crops, historically contributing substantially to the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

Cattle breeding is a crucial component of Zimbabwean agriculture, with cattle being raised for meat, milk, and hides. In addition to cattle, farmers also raise sheep, goats, and poultry. Livestock farming is particularly important in the drier regions of the country, where crop cultivation is less viable.

Agriculture in Zimbabwe is characterized by a mix of large commercial farms and smallholder farms. Historically, agriculture was dominated by large commercial farms, often owned by white farmers, particularly during the colonial period and up until the early 2000s. However, following the land reform program initiated in the early 2000s, which aimed to address historical land imbalances, much of this land was redistributed to black Zimbabweans. This redistribution led to the creation of many smallholder farms, although the process was controversial and often chaotic, leading to a significant decline in agricultural productivity and output.

Zimbabwe faces several challenges in its agricultural sector, including recurrent droughts and erratic rainfall patterns, which have had a severe impact on crop yields and food security. Climate change is exacerbating these issues, making agriculture increasingly difficult.

 

Extraction of natural resources:

Zimbabwe is one of the largest gold producers in Africa, with gold mining being a crucial industry that significantly contributes to the national economy. Gold is extracted from several key mines, including Blanket Mine, one of the country’s largest and most consistent producers. Other notable gold mines include Freda Rebecca and RioZim’s Renco Mine.

In addition to gold, Zimbabwe is home to some of the world’s largest platinum reserves. Platinum is a critical resource, especially in the automotive industry, where it is used in the production of catalytic converters. Major platinum mining operations in Zimbabwe include the Unki Mine, owned by Anglo American Platinum, and the Mimosa Mine, a joint venture between Impala Platinum and Sibanye-Stillwater. Another significant platinum mine is Zimplats, the largest platinum producer in the country.

Zimbabwe is also a notable producer of diamonds, with the Marange diamond fields in the eastern part of the country being particularly famous for their large alluvial diamond deposits. The Marange area gained international attention for both the scale of its diamond production and the controversies surrounding the human rights abuses and smuggling that occurred there. Diamonds remain an important mineral resource for Zimbabwe’s economy.

The country has significant coal reserves, particularly in the Hwange region, which is home to the largest coal mine in Zimbabwe, Hwange Colliery. Coal is primarily used for power generation and industrial processes within the country. However, coal mining has faced challenges, including outdated infrastructure and environmental concerns, which have limited its expansion.

In addition to these minerals, Zimbabwe also has deposits of chromite (used in stainless steel production), nickel, and lithium.

 

Industry:

Mining is one of Zimbabwe’s main industries, with the extraction of raw materials such as gold, platinum, diamonds, and nickel being particularly significant. Gold mining has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy, contributing substantially to export revenues. Platinum mining is also crucial, with Zimbabwe holding some of the largest platinum reserves in the world. The platinum mining sector, led by major operations like Unki, Mimosa, and Zimplats, plays a key role in the country’s mining and economic landscape. Diamond mining, particularly from the Marange fields, has become increasingly important, despite controversies related to human rights and smuggling.

In addition to these major minerals, Zimbabwe also mines other raw materials, including coal, which is predominantly used for power generation and industrial purposes. Tin, tungsten, and chromite are also mined, though on a smaller scale compared to the more prominent minerals. Zimbabwe is one of the world’s largest producers of lithium, a mineral increasingly important for the global battery industry.

The food processing industry is another significant sector in Zimbabwe’s economy. It includes the processing of staple foods such as flour and sugar, as well as meat, dairy products, and beverages. The industry serves both domestic markets and exports, although it has faced challenges related to economic instability and infrastructure issues.

The textiles and clothing industry, once a thriving sector, has struggled in recent years due to competition from cheaper imports, economic challenges, and outdated machinery. However, it remains an important part of Zimbabwe’s industrial landscape, particularly in the production of clothing and fabrics.

Zimbabwe is also one of the world’s largest producers of tobacco, which is a major export crop and a critical source of foreign currency. The tobacco industry has a significant impact on the country’s economy, supporting a large number of smallholder farmers and contributing to export revenues.

The construction industry in Zimbabwe is involved in various projects aimed at developing the country’s infrastructure and industrial base. This includes road construction, housing developments, and the building of industrial facilities

 

Services and other areas of the economy: Finance and banking, tourism, ICT and fintech

 

Natural and historical attractions: Khami, Great Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, Hwange and Mana Pools national parks, and Lake Kariba

Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), is one of the most famous natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent waterfall on the Zambezi River is one of Zimbabwe’s top tourist destinations. Visitors flock to Victoria Falls for breathtaking views, thrilling activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter flights over the falls. The nearby Zambezi National Park and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (on the Zambian side) also offer excellent opportunities for game viewing and exploring the natural environment.

Zimbabwe is home to several national parks and nature reserves that provide unique safari and wildlife viewing experiences. Among the most famous are Hwange National Park, the largest in Zimbabwe, known for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife; Mana Pools National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning landscapes along the Zambezi River and its opportunities for walking safaris and canoeing; and Matobo National Park, famous for its dramatic granite formations, rock art, and as the burial site of Cecil Rhodes.

Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and historical heritage is also a significant attraction. Matobo National Park, besides its natural beauty, contains ancient San rock paintings, some of which date back thousands of years. The park is also historically significant as it includes the tombs of Ndebele kings and the grave of Cecil Rhodes, the British colonialist.

Great Zimbabwe, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s most important archaeological sites. This ancient city, once the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, is known for its impressive stone ruins, including the Great Enclosure and the Conical Tower. The site is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Shona people who built it between the 11th and 15th centuries.

Safaris are a very popular way to explore Zimbabwe’s abundant wildlife. Many national parks offer guided safaris, providing visitors with opportunities to see Africa’s “Big Five”—lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and buffalo—as well as a wide variety of other species, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and numerous bird species. These safaris can be conducted in open vehicles, on foot, or by boat, depending on the park and the experience desired.

 

 

Form of government: semi-presidential republic

Zimbabwe has a semi-presidential system of government, characterized by a combination of presidential and parliamentary elements. The president is the head of state, government, and the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, holding significant executive authority. The president is elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, with the possibility of re-election for a second term.

Executive power is vested in both the president and the cabinet. The president appoints the vice presidents and ministers, who are responsible for various government departments. The president works closely with the cabinet to manage the affairs of the state, formulate policies, and oversee their implementation.

Zimbabwe also has a parliament, which consists of two houses: the House of Assembly (the lower house) and the Senate (the upper house). Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected through a mixed electoral system that includes both direct elections and proportional representation. Parliament plays a key role in lawmaking, and while the president has the power to assent to laws, Parliament holds the authority to debate and pass legislation.

The judiciary in Zimbabwe is intended to be independent, with the courts responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring justice is administered fairly. The highest court in the country is the Constitutional Court, which was established in 2013 and is responsible for constitutional matters. The Supreme Court, which handles appeals and significant legal cases, ranks just below the Constitutional Court in the judicial hierarchy. The judiciary ensures compliance with the Constitution and the legal order, although its independence has been subject to criticism and concerns over political interference.

 

Capital city: Harare

Harare, the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe, is situated in the northeastern part of the country. As the administrative, commercial, and communication center of Zimbabwe, Harare plays a crucial role in the nation’s activities. The city was originally established in 1890 as a fort by the British South Africa Company during the colonial period and was named Salisbury in honor of the British Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury. Over time, Salisbury became the capital of Southern Rhodesia and later the capital of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. Following Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, the city was renamed Harare, after the Shona chief Neharawa, whose name was historically linked to the area.

Harare is known for its broad streets lined with jacaranda trees, which bloom beautifully in October, adding a vibrant splash of color to the city. The architecture in Harare is a mix of modern and colonial styles, reflecting its historical evolution. Among the city’s key attractions is the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which showcases contemporary African art, traditional artifacts, and works by Zimbabwean artists. The Harare Gardens, located in the heart of the city, is the largest public park, offering a serene green space with landscaped gardens and walking paths.

Another significant site is the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, which features exhibits on the country’s archaeology, ethnography, and history, including the famous Zimbabwe Birds, ancient soapstone carvings from Great Zimbabwe. Mbare Musika Market, one of Harare’s oldest and largest markets, offers a vibrant experience of local trade, with a wide variety of fresh produce and traditional crafts. For a panoramic view of the city, Kopje Hill, a granite outcrop, is a popular spot and holds a monument commemorating the early settlers. Just outside the city, Chapungu Sculpture Park is dedicated to the Shona art of stone sculpture, displaying works by both established and emerging Zimbabwean artists.

The city has a population of about 1 603 000.

 

Area: 390 757 km² (150 872 square miles)

 

Population: 15 179 000 (2022 census)

Zimbabwe has a diverse ethnic population, with the largest group being the Shona, who make up about 70% of the population. The Ndebele form the second-largest group, comprising around 16-20%. Other ethnic groups include the Venda, Tonga, Shangaan, Kalanga, and minority communities of Europeans and Asians.

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, reflecting its linguistic diversity. While English is the main language used in government, education, and business, Shona and Ndebele are the most widely spoken indigenous languages. Shona is spoken predominantly in the northern and eastern parts of the country, while Ndebele is spoken mainly in the southwest. Other languages, such as Chewa, Venda, Tonga, and Kalanga, are also spoken by various communities.

Christianity is the predominant religion in Zimbabwe, with about 70-80% of the population identifying as Christian. The largest Christian denominations include Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, Methodism, and Pentecostalism, along with various independent African churches. In addition to Christianity, many Zimbabweans adhere to traditional African religions, which include a variety of beliefs, rituals, and practices centered around ancestral worship, spirit mediums, and the veneration of natural elements. These traditional practices often coexist with Christian beliefs in the daily lives of many Zimbabweans.

 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 5

 

1. Mana Pools, Sapi, Chewore (1984) – National parks and nature reserves on the banks of the Zambezi River.
2. Great Zimbabwe (1986) – An archaeological site and complex of stone ruins located in the south-eastern part of Zimbabwe.
3. Khami (1986) – Khami was an important center and capital of a kingdom that flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries
4. Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls (1989) – Victoria Falls on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
5. Matobo Hills (2003) – Rich archaeological finds and rock paintings provide a picture of the life of prehistoric communities.

 

National parks: 11

 

1. Chimanimani National Park
2. Chizarira National Park
3. Gonarezhou National Park
4. Hwange National Park
5. Kazuma Pan National Park
6. Mana Pools National Park
7. Matobo National Park
8. Matusadona National Park
9. Nyanga National Park
10. Victoria Falls National Park
11. Zambezi National Park