MY STORY - THE PRICE OF SURVIVAL IN ZIMBABWE

By: [Chiedza Kambari], Deputy Organising Secretary – Midlands Branch, ROHR Zimbabwe

31^st July 2026

My father held a diploma in Business Management, a qualification that should have opened doors, that should have given our family dignity and stability. Instead, he sat at home for ten long years: skilled, educated, and willing to work, yet unable to find a single job anywhere.

I will never forget 2008. We had gone three days without a single meal. Desperate to keep us alive, my father walked all the way from Marondera to Harare miles and miles on foot, just to beg for help from relatives. He came back with a little money someone had given him, bought a small sack of mealie meal, and for the first time in days, we had something to eat. Not long after, he was called to work as a teacher. We thought things would finally get better. But every month, his salary was so small it could not even cover the bus fare to Harare, let alone feed and clothe us properly. Life stayed hard, year after year.

When the unity government was formed, we dared to hope. We celebrated, believing things would change, that jobs would return, that food would be affordable, that suffering families like ours would finally breathe easier. But today? Things are far worse than they ever were.

To ZANU-PF: we ask you, please have mercy on your people. See the hunger, see the wasted skills, see the parents walking miles on foot just to feed their children. We are not asking for special treatment, we are asking for a country where hard work is rewarded, where education counts for something, and where no one has to choose between starving and suffering.

My father’s story is not unique. It is the story of millions: educated people forgotten, hard work unrewarded, hope slowly starved away while a few live in plenty. This is not the future we dreamed of. And until we build a nation that truly cares for every one of its citizens, we will not stay silent.

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Organising Secretary of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com OR at Chiedza.kambari@rohr-zimbabwe.org

In the Face of CAA3, We Are Down but Not Out

By Genius Khatazile Mamwadhu

19^th July 2026

As a community of human rights activists representing the ordinary Zimbabwean citizen, we put up a strong and spirited fight against Constitution Amendment Bill # 3 (CAB 3), from the time it was first whispered in ZANU-PF circles to its enactment on 7 July 2026.

It was never going to be easy to prevail against the machinations of a dictator determined to establish a dynasty, shield himself from possible future prosecution for his role in the Gukurahundi genocide, and evade accountability for the many atrocities committed by ZANU-PF and state machinery at his behest over four decades—not to mention the desire to protect what he looted from Zimbabwe’s resources.

Emmerson Mnangagwa deliberately avoided a referendum on a matter of great national importance and has instead forced his way forward, using looted national resources to buy the support of Members of Parliament.

He has also bought off most social influencers and anyone he believed might stand in his way as he marches toward crowning himself the “King of Zimbabwe.”

He also deployed State machinery to crush dissent. The CIO ensured that attempts to mobilise against CAB 3 were suppressed, and leading voices were hounded into silence. Some were abducted and tortured, some were incarcerated, and others were driven into exile.

The police stood ready with baton sticks and tear gas, while army tanks were visibly positioned to send a clear warning: citizens should think twice before taking to the streets.

The memories of the killings of unarmed protesters in January and August 2018 remain fresh, and the sight of army tanks stationed in strategic positions across the country is deterrent enough.

We must therefore acknowledge that we lost this battle, and that is deeply painful.

However, we will continue to fight the Mnangagwa regime until we overturn CAA 3 and all the unjust, repressive laws the regime has enacted.

We are back to the drawing board.

We are down, but not out.

About the author: -
Genius Khatazile Mamwadhu is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is a member of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Human Rights Organisation (ZHRO) and is also active with the Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF). He can be contacted via email at mamwadhukhatazile@gmail.com.

The Constitution Was Meant to Protect Zimbabweans—Not Those in Power

Why Constitution Amendment No. 3 Is a Threat to Democracy

By Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu

13^th July 2026

A constitution is the supreme law of a nation. It exists to protect the rights of citizens, limit the abuse of power, and ensure that governments remain accountable to the people. When constitutional changes appear to serve the interests of those in power rather than the nation, every citizen has a duty to ask difficult questions.

The enactment of Constitution Amendment Act No. 3 has become one of the most controversial political developments in Zimbabwe's recent history. Many Zimbabweans believe the amendment weakens democratic governance and shifts the Constitution away from its intended purpose of protecting the people.

On 10 July 2026, Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom and democracy activists gathered outside the Zimbabwe Embassy to peacefully protest the signing of the amendment into law. Their message was clear: the Constitution belongs to the people, not to any political party or individual.

Many citizens believe the amendment offers little hope for ordinary Zimbabweans who continue to face economic hardship, unemployment, failing public services, and rising poverty. Instead, critics argue that the changes strengthen political power while doing little to improve the daily lives of the people.

The process leading to the amendment has also raised serious concerns. Opposition parties, civic organisations, and democracy advocates have alleged that intimidation, political pressure, and inducements were used to secure support for the Bill. Allegations that some public officials and Members of Parliament received financial rewards or vehicles have been widely reported in political debate, although these claims remain contested and have not been conclusively established by the courts.

Equally worrying is the growing fear among many Zimbabweans of speaking openly about political issues. Reports of arrests, abductions, and the prosecution of government critics have created an atmosphere in which many people feel that expressing a different opinion comes with serious personal risk. Democracy cannot flourish where fear replaces freedom.

The protest at the Zimbabwe Embassy was not driven by hatred or division. It was an expression of love for Zimbabwe and a desire to see a nation governed by the rule of law, constitutionalism, and respect for the will of the people.

As democracy activists, we cannot remain silent when we believe the Constitution is being used to consolidate political power rather than protect the rights of citizens. Peaceful protest is not a crime. Speaking out against injustice is not an act of disloyalty. It is the responsibility of every citizen who believes in democracy.

Zimbabwe deserves leaders who place the interests of the people above political survival. The country's future should be determined by its citizens through free, fair, and democratic processes—not through constitutional changes that many believe undermine the spirit of the 2013 Constitution.

Our call remains firm and peaceful:
No to Constitutional Amendment No. 3.
No to extending political power through constitutional manipulation.
No to fear, intimidation, and the silencing of citizens.

Yes to democracy.
Yes to constitutionalism.

Yes to a Zimbabwe where every citizen can speak freely, participate without fear, and determine the future of their nation.

History will remember those who defended democracy when it was under threat. May we all have the courage to stand on the right side of history.

About the author
Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is in the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at rumbidzaithelmazhanje@gmail.com 

Zimbabweans Deserve Dignity, Not Abandonment

by Chiedza Kambari

5^th July 2026

The ongoing situation involving Zimbabweans waiting for transport in South Africa is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Reports indicate that thousands of people have been stranded for days, sleeping outside in cold and rainy weather while waiting for buses that were promised but have arrived in insufficient numbers.

Among those stranded are pregnant women, children, elderly people, and individuals who are ill. Leaving vulnerable people exposed to harsh weather for such a long time is a humanitarian crisis that demands an urgent response.

It is deeply disappointing that those affected have been left to endure these conditions while waiting for assistance. Promises without timely action only increase the suffering of people who are already facing uncertainty and hardship.

Every government has a responsibility to protect the dignity and welfare of its people. Zimbabwean citizens deserve safe and organised transportation, proper shelter, access to healthcare where needed, and clear communication during times of crisis. No one should be left abandoned in the open for days.

As a Zimbabwean, I believe our leaders should focus on protecting citizens and addressing humanitarian emergencies rather than prioritising political celebrations such as Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB 3). Celebrating perceived political achievements while vulnerable Zimbabweans continue to suffer reflects misplaced priorities and a failure of compassionate leadership.

Human rights are not optional. Every Zimbabwean deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and humanity. I call on all responsible authorities to act urgently, honour their commitments, and ensure that no Zimbabwean is left to suffer in such inhumane conditions again.

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Organising Secretary of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com OR at Chiedza.kambari@rohr-zimbabwe.org

Zimbabwe’s Main Challenges-What Citizens Are Facing

14th June 2026 

By Chiedza Kambari

Zimbabwe continues to face a number of challenges that affect the daily lives of its citizens. Many people are struggling with the high cost of living, unemployment, inadequate public services, and economic hardship.

Concerns have also been raised about the condition of public infrastructure, including roads, water systems, and drainage networks. Recent incidents involving unsafe sewage drains have highlighted the need for greater attention to public safety and maintenance of essential services.

Many citizens and civil society groups have expressed concerns about proposed laws and policies, including Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, arguing that legislation should protect democratic rights and freedoms while promoting national development. 

Healthcare services, education, and social welfare systems also face significant pressures, making it difficult for many families to access the support they need. As a result, some Zimbabweans have sought opportunities abroad in search of better living conditions and economic stability.

Addressing these challenges requires accountable leadership, transparency, investment in public services, and policies that improve the welfare of all citizens. Zimbabweans deserve a future where they can live in safety, dignity, and prosperity.

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Organising Secretary of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com OR at Chiedza.kambari@rohr-zimbabwe.org

When Survival Becomes a Struggle: A Cry for Dignity in Zimbabwe

30th April 2026

By Chiedza Kambari (ROHR Zimbabwe Activist)

Last week, the streets spoke not in celebration, but in silence, fear, and frustration. Vendors whispered instead of calling customers. Families counted coins instead of planning futures. In a nation rich with resources, ordinary people are being pushed to the edge of survival.

The reality we face today is painful but undeniable. Inflation continues to rise while incomes remain stagnant. Basic commodities, food, transport, and healthcare are becoming unaffordable for the majority. At the same time, policies and restrictions are tightening, leaving citizens with fewer options for honest survival. Instead of protection, many now feel controlled, unheard, and forgotten.

As an activist with ROHR Zimbabwe, I see this struggle not as statistics, but as real lives. Mothers are skipping meals so their children can eat. Students are dropping out because the fees are unaffordable. The elderly, who once built this nation, are now surviving without dignity or proper care.

The basic rights to food and dignity have become luxuries in a resource-rich nation.

This is not just an economic issue; it is a human rights crisis.

What we are witnessing is the widening gap between leadership and the people. When laws and policies ignore the daily realities of citizens, they stop serving the people and start oppressing them. Fear should never replace freedom. Survival should never replace dignity.

But silence will not fix this.

We must speak. We must question. We must demand accountability, not as enemies of the state, but as citizens who love their country and want better for it. Change begins when truth is no longer hidden and when people refuse to accept suffering as normal.

Zimbabweans deserve more.
More fairness.
More opportunity.
More dignity.

The time to act is now, not tomorrow, not someday, because a nation cannot thrive when its people are merely trying to survive.

#NoTo2030
#CAB3
#NoToCAB3
#No2CAB3
#Zimbabwe
#HumanRights
#ROHRZimbabwe

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is in the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com 

Recent Zimbabwean Diaspora Protests: A Stand for Human Rights and Democracy

By Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu

23^rd April 2026

On the 18th and 21st of April 2026, Zimbabweans across the diaspora united in peaceful demonstrations
to voice their concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in our homeland. These protests, highlighted by the formal submission of a petition to the British Prime Minister’s office, 10 Downing Street, in London on 21^st April 2026, were not merely acts of defiance; they were a necessary response to a deepening national crisis.

Though we live beyond Zimbabwe’s geographic borders, we remain inseparably bound to its fate. Our families, our histories, and our hearts remain there. Distance has not silenced us—it has instead fortified our responsibility to speak, especially for the many at home who are denied the freedom to do so.

Zimbabwe currently stands at a crossroads, grappling with profound socio-economic and political upheaval. Ordinary citizens endure the crushing weight of rising poverty, systemic unemployment, and a collapsing healthcare system. Simultaneously, the fundamental pillars of democracy—freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation—are under sustained pressure.

Central to these concerns is the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3. This deeply contested legislation is widely viewed as a direct threat to constitutional integrity and democratic accountability. At a juncture where Zimbabweans require stronger legal protections and transparent governance, such proposals cast a shadow over the future of national leadership.

For those within the country, speaking out often carries grave personal risk. This reality renders the role of the diaspora not just relevant, but essential. Zimbabweans abroad occupy a unique position, able to organise and advocate without the immediate threat of retribution. In doing so, we serve as a megaphone for the voices silenced by fear and repression.

The April 2026 demonstrations were characterised by peace, discipline, and a singular purpose. Zimbabweans from across the United Kingdom and further afield stood in solidarity, setting aside differences to demand justice, dignity, and accountability. The petition delivered reflects these collective aspirations, calling for the uncompromising protection of human rights and a governance system that prioritises the welfare of its people.

These actions must not be misconstrued as hostility toward the nation. On the contrary, they are expressions of profound patriotism. To protest is not to abandon Zimbabwe; it is a refusal to give up on
its potential.

The diaspora remains a vital pillar of Zimbabwe’s present and future. Beyond the vital economic lifeline of remittances, we are active participants in civic life—engaging in high-level advocacy and keeping the international spotlight on the struggle for reform.

The message from our protests is unmistakable: Zimbabweans are not indifferent to the state of their nation. We are watching, we are engaged, and we are demanding better.

Zimbabwe deserves a future where human rights are sacrosanct, where leadership is held to account, and where every citizen can live with dignity and freedom. Until that vision is realised, Zimbabweans—both at home and abroad—will continue to speak, to organise, and to stand for change.

As the diaspora, we know that we have a huge responsibility to speak against the shenanigans and brutality of the regime.

The struggle continues.

#NoTo2030
#CAB3
#NoToCAB3
#No2CAB3
#Zimbabwe
#HumanRights
#ROHRZimbabwe 

About the author
Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at rumbidzaithelmazhanje@gmail.com

Chiedza Kambari: Choosing Courage Over Silence

 23^rd April 2026

My name is Chiedza Kambari, and I am a voice for Zimbabwe.

​I speak not just for myself, but for a nation of people who carry the heavy weight of our country’s
future on their shoulders. Today, the Zimbabwean experience is defined by struggle: the daily battle against economic instability, the loss of essential services, and the shadow of increasingly restrictive measures on our freedom. These are the quiet heartbreaks of every household, affecting the safety and dreams of our children.

​As a mother, my advocacy is personal. I want my children to inherit a nation, not a crisis. I want them to grow up in a land where rights are inherent, not conditional.

​I recently stood in peaceful protest against Bill Number 3. My presence there was a simple demand for dignity. We deserve a Zimbabwe where the law protects the person rather than the powerful—a country where we can speak our truth without looking over our shoulders.

​To speak out is not to be "difficult." It is to be brave. It is believed that the status quo is not our destiny. When we stand together, our collective voice becomes a force that cannot be ignored.

​Zimbabwe is our home. It belongs to the many, not the few. It is time we built a future rooted in justice, equality and mutual respect.

​I am Chiedza Kambari. I refuse to be silent. I choose to lead with my voice, hence my participation in the Demonstration against the Constitutional Amendment Bill #3 (CAB3) at the Zimbabwe Embassy and our petitioning of the British Prime Minister at his office in London on 21^st April 2026.

We are not done with the resistance yet. Emmerson Mnangagwa must expect more from us.

#NoTo2030
#CAB3
#NoToCAB3
#No2CAB3
#Zimbabwe
#HumanRights
#ROHRZimbabwe

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is in the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com 

Zimbabwe Nurses’ Strike: A Symptom of Systemic Human Rights Violations

Written by  Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu

20^th April 2026

The recent announcement by the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) that nurses across the country

have embarked on a strike to protest poor salaries lays bare a critical human rights crisis in Zimbabwe. What appears on the surface as a labour dispute is, in reality, a direct violation of fundamental rights enshrined in international law—rights that the government has consistently failed to uphold.

According to the statement shared by ZINA, healthcare workers have declared “enough is enough” as they take action against inadequate pay and poor working conditions in government hospitals. This action comes even after a ZIG 1000 payment was deposited into their accounts this month, an amount clearly insufficient to cover basic living costs amid Zimbabwe’s severe economic instability. By failing to provide fair and livable wages, the government is in direct breach of Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which guarantees the right to just and favourable conditions of work, including fair remuneration ensuring a decent standard of living for workers and their families. Zimbabwe is a signatory to this treaty, meaning these obligations are legally binding.

The consequences of this failure extend far beyond the nurses themselves. When healthcare staff are forced to down tools due to economic desperation, access to medical services collapses. Patients—including pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with life-threatening conditions—are left without essential care. This situation violates Article 12 of the ICESCR, which recognises the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. Additionally, Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) states that everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being; this right is being denied to both health workers and the patients they serve.

Critics have also accused ZINA of aligning with President Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda, a claim that adds another layer to the crisis. Many view the government’s handling of labour negotiations as a political tool, using economic pressure to silence dissent and maintain control. This reflects a broader pattern in which state institutions are weaponised against workers, undermining the rights to freedom of association and the right to strike, as protected by Article 8 of the ICESCR and Convention 87 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which Zimbabwe has ratified. When workers are forced to choose between feeding their families and keeping their jobs, or when their representative bodies are perceived as compromised by state influence, their ability to advocate for their rights is severely eroded.

Furthermore, these economic and social rights violations do not exist in isolation. Under Article 2(1) of the ICESCR, States Parties are required to take steps, individually and through international assistance, to achieve the full realisation of these rights progressively. The current crisis demonstrates that the Zimbabwean government has not only failed to make progress but has actively allowed conditions to deteriorate, putting the lives and dignity of its people at risk.

For years, international organisations and human rights groups have documented how the Zimbabwean government repeatedly violates economic and social rights, often as a by-product of political repression. The nurses’ strike is not an isolated event but part of a systemic failure in which state policies prioritise the retention of power over citizens' welfare. Until the government respects its international obligations, ensures fair wages, allocates resources transparently, and allows workers to organise freely, such protests will continue—and the human rights of ordinary Zimbabweans, including the right to life, will remain under severe threat.

Lack of adequate healthcare results in unnecessary deaths, thereby impacting the right to life.

As a human rights activist, I implore the government of Zimbabwe to address this matter urgently.

About the author
Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at rumbidzaithelmazhanje@gmail.com

Shrinking the Democratic Space: The Dictator, Emmerson Mnangagwa, Is at It Again - By Panyika Karimanzira

30^th May 2025

This week, kleptocrat and dictator Emmerson Mnangagwa unveiled the Zimbabwe Media Policy.

Cloaked in colourful language and lofty rhetoric, the policy might appear progressive at first glance. But a closer, more critical examination reveals a different reality.

To the discerning citizen, this policy is yet another addition to the regime’s ever-expanding arsenal of repressive tools. Far from promoting transparency or freedom of expression, it resurrects the spirit of the long-repealed Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA). It now joins the ranks of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Act, the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Act of 2023—infamously dubbed the “Patriotic Act”—and the Cyber and Data Protection Act. Collectively, these laws constitute a systematic erosion of Zimbabwe’s democratic space.

The Zimbabwe Media Policy is a framework designed to curtail free speech and media independence. It grants the state sweeping powers—not only over traditional media but also over social media—thus extending its surveillance and control into the daily lives of ordinary citizens.

Central to this policy is a requirement for licensing under a centralised, government-controlled system. In the hands of a dictator, such a mechanism becomes a potent weapon. Media outlets and journalists operate at the mercy of the state. Those who refuse to conform, or who dare to expose corruption and abuses of power, face harsh reprisals.

Journalists are particularly vulnerable. Recent pre-trial detention cases—such as that of Blessing Mhlanga and, before him, Hopewell Chin’ono—demonstrate the real consequences of exposing the corruption and shenanigans of the ruling elite, as well as speaking truth to power. Under this policy, reporters who shine a light on government failures or corruption risk imprisonment.

Foreign journalists are also targeted. They must obtain security clearance from the intelligence services, pay hefty fees, and surrender copies of any documentaries produced during their stay in Zimbabwe. This not only discourages external scrutiny but also tightens the regime’s grip on its international image.

Clause 4.8 (Page 31) of the policy outlines a chilling array of penalties: loss of licenses or accreditation, forced content removal or blocking, mandatory apologies and corrections, disqualification from media awards, and potential legal action.

Big Brother is not just watching us —he is silencing us.

About the author

Panyika Anselm Karimanzira is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is a board member of and spokesperson for Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  He can be contacted by email at anselm.karimanzira@yahoo.ie OR panyika.karimanzira@rohr-zimbabwe.org 

RESIST THE 2030 POWER GRAB - by Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu

By Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu 

9th February, 2025

In late 2024, Zimbabwe faced a profound constitutional crisis as President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa sought to extend his tenure beyond the constitutionally mandated two-term limit, aiming to remain in power until 2030. This move starkly contravenes the nation's constitution, which unequivocally restricts any individual to a maximum of two five-year terms as president. The populace had anticipated the conclusion of Mnangagwa's rule in 2028, placing their faith in constitutional governance. However, it appears that the current administration is intent on manipulating the law to serve its own avaricious ambitions.

Mnangagwa's political trajectory is deeply entwined with the malfeasance within ZANU-PF. Serving as a close advisor to Robert Mugabe, he held various influential positions, including roles in foreign affairs, trade and commerce, judiciary services, and the secret service. The latter was notoriously employed to suppress dissent, leading to widespread human rights abuses. From the 1980s to the present, political violence has been a grim constant, with countless individuals subjected to torture, disfigurement, and extrajudicial killings.

This pervasive climate of fear and repression has compelled hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans to flee their homeland, seeking refuge from persecution and potential death. For many, this marks the beginning of an interminable suffering, rendering the prospect of returning to the land they once cherished increasingly remote.

As a former regional board member of ZimRights in Bulawayo, I have tirelessly advocated for justice and an end to political violence and inhumane treatment of regime opponents. This activism has made me a target of the ZANU-PF government, extinguishing any hope I might have had of returning to Zimbabwe.

Beyond the political turmoil, the nation's public services have deteriorated precipitously under ZANU-PF's misrule. The healthcare system is virtually non-existent, a dire situation exacerbated by the cessation of life-saving medications previously supplied by USAID. Basic services such as electricity, water, and transportation have become increasingly unreliable, with conditions worsening daily. How much longer will this regime be permitted to decimate the remnants of Zimbabwe's infrastructure and social services?

The current administration stands accused of:

1. Distorting the constitution to benefit a select few and entrench a counter-revolutionary cabal.
2. Exploiting the national treasury for personal enrichment, indulging in extravagant spending and opulent lifestyles.
3. Neglecting the masses while enriching a minority at the majority's expense.
4. Allowing hospitals to operate without essential drugs, causing widespread suffering.
5. Failing to provide education for children due to pervasive poverty.
6. Illicitly transferring funds to hidden foreign accounts, leaving the majority in abject poverty.

It is imperative to address these egregious violations of constitutional rights and shield the nation from this corrupt and ruthless cabal. Leveraging Zimbabwe's 62 mineral resources holds the potential to transform the country into an upper-income nation.

NO TO THE ZANU-PF REGIME'S 2030 AGENDA

The proposed extension of President Mnangagwa's term not only subverts the constitution but also undermines the democratic aspirations of the Zimbabwean people. This blatant power grab must be resolutely opposed to preserve the nation's democratic integrity and ensure a prosperous future for all citizens.

About the author 

Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of The UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. She is also a member of CCC UK and a former Bulawayo regional board member of ZimRights. She can be contacted by email at evangenoe@gmail.com

Hope in the Face of Oppression in Zimbabwe - by Renee Brenda Langa

By Renee Brenda Langa

5th January 2025

“Usarega kunyengetera ndidzoke kumba.”

“Jongwe zvorokukuridza mudiwa muka. Ndoringe nzira ndoyambukira mhiri kwehova, tarira ndokunoenda vamwe, ndokunoenda vamwe. Hongu, kure kwegava usipo mutsvubvu. Usarega kunyengetera ndidzoke kumba.”

In my view, the song “Ndinouya” by Gwevedzi resonates deeply with the experiences of Zimbabweans enduring the oppressive realities of life under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ZANU-PF regime. The crow of the rooster, traditionally symbolising the start of a new day, becomes a call for awakening and hope amid hardship. The poignant line “Ndoringe nzira, ndoyambukira mhiri kwehova” evokes a deep longing and an unrelenting search for freedom—an echo of the struggles of those in detention, in exile, or simply striving for better prospects in their homeland.

These evocative lyrics encapsulate the emotional turmoil felt by many forced to flee Zimbabwe due to political instability, economic collapse, and systemic human rights abuses. They reflect the painful reality of activists and families awaiting justice and restoration in a fractured nation.

Under Mnangagwa’s leadership, the hope for progress that briefly followed Robert Mugabe’s rule has largely faded. The 2018 elections were marred by allegations of rigging and violence against opposition supporters, signalling a continuation of oppressive governance. In the years since, political repression has worsened, with arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, and abductions of activists becoming distressingly common. The disappearance of Itai Dzamara in 2015 remains a harrowing reminder of the regime’s disregard for dissent and human rights.

Particularly alarming is the plight of the detained. As of June 2024, 78 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) members remain imprisoned without bail, accused of participating in an “illegal gathering.” Their continued detention illustrates the state’s use of the judiciary as a tool of repression. Amnesty International, ROHR Zimbabwe, and other human rights organisations have condemned these abuses and urged immediate investigations into reports of torture, as well as the release of these political prisoners.

For those driven into exile, the song’s imagery of gazing across distant horizons symbolises enduring hope for the day they might return to a free and just Zimbabwe. Their struggle is shared by those still within the country, living under a government that continues to prioritise power at the expense of its citizens’ welfare. Under Mnangagwa’s regime, economic instability has deepened, corruption has worsened, and poverty has become more widespread, forcing millions to leave in search of safety and opportunity.

In this climate, the rooster’s crow takes on new meaning—not just as a call to rise, but as a reminder that true change often emerges in the darkest hour before dawn. It becomes a symbol of resilience and the collective yearning for justice, accountability, and renewal.

Zimbabwe’s future hinges on both external advocacy and the courage of its citizens to demand reform. As Christians, we are called to pray fervently for the nation’s freedom and restoration. This includes praying for the detained, the displaced, and the persecuted, trusting that God’s justice will prevail. Yet, prayer must be coupled with action—raising awareness, lobbying international bodies, and holding leaders accountable for their actions.

As the rooster crows each morning, it serves as a reminder of God’s promise to bring light into darkness. For Zimbabweans at home and abroad, this is a time to press on, to speak out against oppression, and to hold fast to the hope that one day the chains of injustice will be broken and freedom will reign in the land.

#FreedomForAll
#TinodaRunyararo
#WeWantPeace

NB: The video accompanying this article can also be viewed on YouTube via the following link;-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4ogxo5BjzM

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe and Secretary for Information & Publicity for the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at reneelanga378@gmail.com OR renee.langa@rohr-zimbabwe.org

Crescendo of Hope: Defying Political Violence in Zimbabwe

2nd October 2024

Today, as the world commemorates the International Day of Non-Violence, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of peace and justice advocated by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day, observed on October 2, Gandhi's birthday, is a global call to reject all forms of violence and seek peaceful resolutions to conflict. Nonviolence is more than just the absence of violence; it is an active stance rooted in justice, compassion, and the courage to confront oppression without resorting to force. As we reflect on this important day, it is essential to examine how political violence has plagued countries like Zimbabwe, where the principles of nonviolence have been grossly undermined by those in power.

Violence can be defined as any force intended to cause destruction, disturbance, defamation, damage, or harm. While violence in all its forms whether political, gender-based, or domestic is universally condemned, certain types of violence have, unfortunately, become normalized in Zimbabwe today. Of particular concern is the rise of political violence and gender-based violence (GBV), which have become recurring features of Zimbabwean media and daily life.

In this context, it is crucial to understand the true meaning of political violence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2002), political violence is the deliberate use of power and force to achieve political objectives. In Zimbabwe, this form of violence has been manipulated, misused, and weaponized, particularly by the ruling ZANU-PF party under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa. The party has consistently deployed propaganda to paint pro-democracy activists and change champions (CCC) as perpetrators of violence, when in fact, it is ZANU-PF itself that has instigated and perpetuated much of the political violence in the country.

Names like Makomborero Haruzivishe, Job Sikhala, Takudzwa Ngadziore, and Allan Moyo are now synonymous with the brutal repression of dissent in Zimbabwe. These individuals, who have courageously stood up for justice and change, have faced severe persecution at the hands of Mnangagwa’s regime. Through the judiciary’s capture and systematic abuse of the legal system, activists are subjected to arbitrary arrests, torture, prolonged periods of remand, and biased trials. This miscarriage of justice has become normalized, raising an urgent question: Who is truly instigating political violence in Zimbabwe? Is it the change champions (CCC) seeking a democratic future, or is it ZANU-PF using violence as a tool to maintain its grip on power?

The ruling party, under Mnangagwa, has strategically abused the concept of political violence to delegitimize opposition and civil society voices. Any exercise of one’s constitutional right to free speech and peaceful assembly is twisted to appear as an act of political subversion or violence. By labeling protests and expressions of dissent as "incitement of violence," the regime seeks to justify its own violent crackdowns on innocent civilians and political opponents. It is ZANU-PF, not the activists, that has fostered a culture of fear and oppression, where violence—both physical and psychological—is used to silence any challenges to its authority.

Since Mnangagwa took over leadership following the ousting of Robert Mugabe, the pattern of political violence has continued unabated. The post-election violence of August 1, 2018, where six unarmed civilians were shot dead by the military, serves as a grim reminder of the state's willingness to use excessive force to stifle any form of protest or dissent. Despite calls for accountability and justice, those responsible for this atrocity have never been held to account. This blatant disregard for human life and the rule of law is emblematic of Mnangagwa’s regime, where violence is not only tolerated but actively used to suppress the will of the people.

The abuse of terms like "political violence" by ZANU-PF is part of a broader strategy to deflect from their own violent actions and paint their opponents as aggressors. By demonizing human rights defenders and political activists, the regime tries to shift the blame for the violence it orchestrates. But the truth is clear: ZANU-PF has long been the instigator of political violence in Zimbabwe, using intimidation, harassment, and physical force to maintain its stranglehold on power

I, therefore, call upon human rights activists, civil society organizations, and the international community to address this distortion of justice and violence. We must stand in solidarity against the ongoing violations of human rights and the manipulation of the law by Mnangagwa’s regime. Political violence is not merely a tool for silencing dissent—it is an attack on the very foundations of democracy and human dignity.

#NoToPoliticalViolence

#StopViolenceInZimbabwe

#EndGBV

#HumanRightsNow

About the author 

Beauty Msimanga is a political activist, a member of the Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC), and a member of Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.

Honouring the International Day of Democracy: Thoughts & Reflections by Memory Kishindo

Honoring the International Day of Democracy: Thoughts and Reflections by Memory Kishindo 

Democracy: What is it? A democracy is a nation that solicits feedback from its people on how it is administered.

Additionally, it's a chance to emphasize how crucial it is to preserve civil freedoms, free expression, the rule of law, accountable institutions, and individuals' human rights. Are we Zimbabweans pleased to celebrate the Day of Democracy? No, and why?

We are being murdered, tortured, kidnapped, falsely arrested, and coerced into disappearances whenever we attempt to speak out.

Since March 2015, when Itai Dzamara vanished, his family has been searching for answers. Human rights advocate Dzamara pushed the Zimbabwean government to respect human rights and address urgent economic problems. The head of Amnesty International in Zimbabwe, Lucia Masuka, urged the government of Emmerson Mnangagwa to take steps to track down and identify the activist who has gone missing. The government has done nothing, made no attempt, and kept quiet about Dzamara's disappearance for a long time. 

In Zimbabwe, a lack of the rule of law has resulted in widespread corruption, embezzlement of public monies, and a jobless rate over 90%. Youths have therefore turned to drug misuse as a way to cope with the hardships of unemployment. Over the past ten years, as the nation's economy continues to deteriorate, substance abuse has become increasingly prevalent. Democracy won't exist in Zimbabwe as long as Mnangagwa and the Zanu-PF party are in power, let alone be celebrated in a free and just nation. Unless the Zanu-PF junta party is forced from office and a new generation of leaders is chosen through free and fair democratic elections. 

As a human rights advocate, I declare that enough is enough. We are sick and weary of Zimbabwean individuals being killed, subjected to cruelty, and having their human rights violated. We have endured far too much suffering at the hands of a corrupt and cruel man. 

#IDofDemocracy2024

About the author

Memory Kishindo is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.