NO PROGRESS: Zimbabwe’s Stagnation Six Years After Mnangagwa’s Coup

Six years have elapsed since Emmerson Mnangagwa toppled former president Robert Mugabe via a military coup in November 2017, but the landscape of Zimbabwe remains largely unchanged. In fact, there have been alarming increases in corruption, looting, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement. Mnangagwa had promised a departure from Mugabe’s authoritarian rule and economic turmoil, presenting a vision of a new Zimbabwe brimming with opportunities.

However, Mnangagwa’s economic reform efforts have fallen short or remain incomplete across various sectors. The national currency has been severely impacted by runaway inflation, corruption continues to be pervasive, land reform is still unfinished, the mining sector has become increasingly militarized, and the privatization of state assets has been fraught with false starts.

In essence, since assuming the presidency, Mnangagwa’s administration has steered the economy into a downward spiral. With the ruling party, Zanu-PF, at the helm, any genuine reform seems unlikely amidst the current economic and political conditions. As Zimbabwe gears up for the national elections in 2023, it appears destined to continue down a path marred by political polarization, protests, state-sponsored political violence, and further economic deterioration. Regrettably, government pledges under Mnangagwa have fallen woefully short of their promises.

The nation’s currency has faced the brunt of the economic mismanagement, with inflation running rampant. This has led to a loss of confidence in the economy, stifling investment and exacerbating poverty for ordinary citizens. Despite lofty assurances of combating corruption, graft remains endemic, stifling the potential for progress and investment.

The issue of land reform, which has been a contentious point for years, remains unresolved. The process of redistributing land to address historical inequalities has been slow and inconsistent, leading to uncertainty in the agricultural sector and impacting food security.

The mining sector, an area with immense potential for growth and revenue, has also suffered. Increasing militarization has raised concerns about the management and transparency of the industry, leaving potential investors wary of becoming entangled in corrupt practices.

Moreover, the privatization of state assets has faced numerous obstacles, hindering the government’s attempts to revitalize the economy through increased private investment and efficiency.

As the 2023 national elections draw near, Zimbabwe’s future hangs in the balance. The present government’s inability to address the nation’s pressing issues has only fueled public discontent, leading to heightened political polarization and increased protests. Regrettably, instead of focusing on uplifting the nation, the government has resorted to using force to suppress dissent, leading to a deterioration of the political climate.

For Zimbabwe to break free from this cycle of stagnation and despair, genuine and comprehensive reforms are essential. The government must prioritize tackling corruption, ensuring transparency and accountability in all sectors, and fostering an environment that encourages both local and foreign investment.

A new Zimbabwe is still possible, but it requires bold leadership and a commitment to the welfare of its citizens. As the nation approaches the pivotal moment of the 2023 elections, the time for change is now. Only through genuine progress and a departure from the current trajectory can Zimbabwe unlock its true potential and pave the way for a brighter future.