Zimbabwe Faces Currency, Political, Economic Shifts

New ZiG notes circulate as term extension, high costs, and surveillance spark debate.

RBZ Circulates New ZiG Banknotes

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe rolls out upgraded ZiG notes to stabilize local currency.

Zimbabwe begins circulating upgraded ZiG banknotes today. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) confirmed the phased rollout, starting with lower denominations. This move aims to stabilize the local currency, aligning with ongoing reforms.Authorities push for economic stability, with the RBZ stating the rollout will expand gradually based on demand and economic conditions. This follows the introduction of the new ZiG currency in February.The central bank introduced new ZiG notes, dubbed the "Big Five," via the annual Monetary Policy Presentation. Initiatives aim for durable, quality notes.

ZCC Leader Backs Presidential Term Extension

ZCC leader Bishop Mutendi backs Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 to extend presidential term.

Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) backs legislative changes to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s incumbency. Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 (CAB3) seeks to postpone 2028 elections and aims to lengthen Mnangagwa’s term by two years.Retired Air Marshall Henry Muchena warns the military watches developments, stating the army will advise if Zanu PF becomes a security threat.Opposition leader Tendai Biti claims a "slow coup" unfolds in Zimbabwe.A faction within Zanu PF intends to cause the postponement of elections and extend the presidential term. This move faces criticism from retired generals demanding a referendum.

Citizens Face Unaffordable Basic Necessities

Public reports soaring cost of living as fuel prices remain high despite government claims.

Zimbabweans report basic necessities are now unaffordable as the cost of living soars. This occurs despite government claims of a "diesel tax cut." Fuel prices remain high, with petrol selling for some of the highest rates regionally.Experts push for fuel prices around US$1.30 per litre. The public questions government promises as diesel and petrol prices continued to rise. Motorists continue to pay some of the region's highest fuel prices.This economic strain makes everyday essentials increasingly difficult to afford for many households. Fuelling public discontent.

Raw Minerals Continue Dominating Exports

RBZ report confirms raw minerals remain primary export, challenging value addition policies.

Zimbabwe's primary exports remain raw minerals, confirmed by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s (RBZ) latest monthly economic review. This persistent trend raises questions regarding the success of government value addition policies over the years, aiming for industrialization. Out of the country’s US$969.4 million in merchandise exports, raw products still form the largest portion. This indicates a continued reliance on unprocessed goods, contrary to national industrialization goals. The focus on raw material export hinders the creation of value-added products and local job opportunities. This highlights a critical economic challenge for national wealth creation.

ZRP Establishes 24-Hour Social Media Monitoring

Zimbabwe Republic Police forms dedicated team to monitor all social media platforms.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) established a dedicated 24-hour team to monitor all social media platforms. National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul confirmed this new strategy, marking a significant shift in law enforcement. Authorities increasingly rely on digital platforms for crime detection. The ZRP aims for improved public engagement and crime fighting, using these platforms to track activity. Concerns arise regarding potential effects on civil liberties and freedom of speech, with critics questioning the scope of surveillance. This new initiative indicates a proactive approach to digital crime, but raises important privacy questions. A 24-hour team monitoring all platforms.

Parliament Debates Domestic Procurement Law

Parliament debates legislation to compel firms to buy local goods, curb fake products.

Zimbabwean Parliamentarians are weighing new legislation to mandate local companies procure domestically produced goods. This initiative, confirmed by a senior lawmaker, also includes efforts to secure cross-border agreements to stop the influx of counterfeit products.The country has experienced a significant rise in fake goods, from food to household items, often illegally imported. This proposed law aims to bolster local industries and safeguard consumer interests against substandard products.The legislation seeks to reduce the flow of counterfeit items and stimulate local manufacturing. A move to reshape industrial practices.

Zimbabwe Ranks Among Unhappiest Nations

2026 World Happiness Report lists Zimbabwe among the least happy countries globally.

The 2026 World Happiness Report ranks Zimbabwe among the world’s unhappiest countries, alongside Afghanistan and Lebanon. The report highlights ongoing struggles with conflict, economic challenges, and social instability.These factors significantly influence citizens’ overall well-being and happiness levels. The assessment points to profound societal distress, reflecting the daily realities for many.Zimbabwe's low ranking signals deep-seated issues shaping its population's daily reality. A reflection of prevalent economic challenges and persistent instability.

ZANU PF Official Faces Phone Theft Allegations

Luckmore Gapa faces expulsion if claims of stealing Doug Coltart's phone are proven.

ZANU PF Treasurer General Patrick Chinamasa stated Central Committee member Luckmore Tinashe Gapa could face expulsion. This follows allegations that Gapa snatched lawyer Doug Coltart’s phone during chaotic public hearings in Harare. Chinamasa warned of a "heavy-handed approach" if courts find Gapa guilty. The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) called for tolerance following reports of violence and intimidation during the Constitutional Amendment Bill No.3 public hearings. Cameras embarrassingly caught Gapa grabbing Coltart’s mobile phone at the public hearing. Amidst chaotic scenes at the City Sports Centre on March 31, 2026.

Government Digitizes Property Registry

Government launches pilot program to streamline land administration, selecting 16 law firms.

The government launched a pilot program to digitize the country’s land administration system, aiming to streamline the property registry. This initiative marks a key step towards modernizing the system.The government selected 16 law firms to participate in the Title Deeds Validation and Re-Issuance Programme. The Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ) demanded answers following complaints from other legal practitioners. Lawyers "cry foul" over the selection process.The Ministry of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs officially launched the program on April 1, 2026. A move influencing property rights nationwide.

Bulawayo Taps New Aquifer Amid Water Crisis

Thirsty Bulawayo connects to another aquifer as water rationing remains in force.

Bulawayo taps into another aquifer to address its persistent water crisis. This move follows continued water rationing in the city. Mzilikazi residents also step in to assist with community efforts.Mayor David Coltart stresses the crisis is about delivery capacity, not just water availability. Technical data suggests proximity to aquifers ensures high water yield, provided boreholes reach a minimum depth of 50 meters.Well-wishers contributed to community efforts, with council providing technical support. Significant challenges in supplying water to its residents.

The Jeere 2026-04-08  ·  stories

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