The United Nations children's fund reports a dire situation in eastern and southern Africa, where 45 million children face severe food insecurity exacerbated by climate change and the 2023-24 El Nino phenomenon. UNICEF officials highlight worsening child malnutrition and efforts to integrate climate education into schools. In Zimbabwe, families like Elita Ncube's struggle with poverty and food scarcity, while the government hesitates to declare the drought a national disaster.

Zimbabwe is experiencing heightened food insecurity, affecting 2.7 million people during its lean season, exacerbated by an ongoing drought. The World Food Program highlights Mangwe as one of the most impacted districts.

Russia donated 25,000 tons of grain and 23,000 tons of fertilizer to Zimbabwe to mitigate the effects of an El Nino-induced drought. President Emmerson Mnangagwa welcomed the aid, highlighting the enduring alliance between Zimbabwe and Russia amidst Western sanctions. The Russian ambassador emphasized the commitment to preventing a global food crisis. Despite the aid, the current growing season may not benefit due to drought conditions. Zimbabwe's electoral commission praised Russia's recent elections, drawing criticism given Zimbabwe's own electoral issues.

Russia donated 25,000 tons of grain and 23,000 tons of fertilizer to Zimbabwe to help combat the effects of drought and sanctions. President Emmerson Mnangagwa welcomed the aid, criticizing Western sanctions. The U.S. maintains sanctions on some Zimbabwean figures, including Mnangagwa, while Russia faces sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine. Russian ambassador Nikolai Krasilnikov stated the donation would support agricultural production and food security. However, the current drought may limit the fertilizer's effectiveness. Alexander Rusero noted Zimbabwe's clear support for Russia. Zimbabwe observed Russian elections, with electoral commission chair Priscilla Chigumba calling them credible, despite criticism of Zimbabwe's own elections.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed optimism about Zimbabwe's economic prospects in 2024, citing the discovery of oil and gas and improvements in mining and tourism. However, economists like Gift Mugano and Prosper Chitambara are cautious, pointing to potential challenges such as drought and the time needed to benefit from new energy resources. The mixed reactions highlight both the potential and the uncertainties facing Zimbabwe's economy.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa predicts a turnaround in Zimbabwe's economy in 2024, driven by the discovery of oil and gas and improvements in mining and tourism. However, economists like Gift Mugano and Prosper Chitambara express skepticism, citing potential drought impacts and the time required to benefit from new energy resources. Ranga Chivi, an emigrant, remains hopeful but concerned about economic stability.

In a New Year message, Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed optimism about the country's economic prospects for 2024, citing achievements in the mining sector and potential in tourism and energy. However, economists like Gift Mugano and Prosper Chitambara caution that the agro-based economy's performance is heavily dependent on weather conditions and that benefits from recent oil and gas discoveries will take time to materialize. Ranga Chivi, an expatriate, echoed the need for economic stability despite the positive developments.

Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF party and opposition are reacting to new US visa restrictions announced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, targeting individuals accused of undermining democracy. The US Embassy in Harare clarified that the policy aims to support free and fair elections. ZANU-PF officials criticize the move as an attempt to incite revolt, while the opposition welcomes the measures and calls for further international actions. The article highlights the contentious political climate following Zimbabwe's flawed August elections.

Journalists in Zimbabwe were ordered by the vice presidential security detail to delete photos and videos of Second Vice President Kembo Mohadi collapsing at a rally. The incident has sparked outrage among media watchdogs and journalists, who view it as a violation of journalistic and constitutional rights. Despite the event, there has been no official update on Mohadi's condition. Government officials have largely refused to comment, while media organizations and rights advocates have condemned the actions as an infringement on press freedom.

Journalists in Zimbabwe were ordered by Vice President Kembo Mohadi's security detail to delete photos and videos of his collapse at a campaign rally. Despite the incident, there has been no official news on Mohadi's condition. Media watchdogs and journalists have condemned the actions as a violation of journalistic rights and the constitution. Government officials, including the First Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, have not commented on the incident but have stated that Zimbabwe respects human rights.

Zimbabwe's Vice President Constantino Chiwenga claimed the country has lost over $150 billion due to sanctions from the EU and the US, which were imposed following allegations of election rigging and human rights abuses. He described the sanctions as detrimental to not only Zimbabwe but the entire Southern Africa region. While Stevenson Dhlamini, an economics professor, agreed with the government's loss estimate, Prosper Chitambara, a senior economist, argued that it's challenging to isolate the effects of sanctions from other factors like corruption. Despite the sanctions, Chiwenga expressed confidence in Zimbabwe's economic resilience. Observers from the Southern African Development Community deemed Zimbabwe's recent general election not credible, diminishing hopes for lifting the sanctions.

Zimbabwe's minister of mines announced a significant gas discovery in the Cabora Bassa Basin, marking a major development in the region's onshore oil and gas sector. Invictus Energy, an Australia-based company, has successfully recovered carbon samples and is optimistic about future prospects. However, concerns have been raised by the Centre for Natural Resource Governance about potential environmental and social impacts. The Zimbabwean government hopes the discovery will alleviate the country's energy shortages.

Energy companies have discovered natural gas in northern Zimbabwe, near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia. The Zimbabwean government views this as a significant development that could reduce reliance on expensive imported energy. Invictus Energy, one of the companies involved, is optimistic about the future prospects. However, concerns have been raised by Farai Maguwu of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance about potential environmental and social impacts. The discovery is seen as a potential game-changer for Zimbabwe's energy sector, which has long faced shortages.

Zimbabwe's vice president, Constantino Chiwenga, claims the country has lost over $150 billion due to sanctions imposed by the EU and the US since the early 2000s, which he describes as 'heinous and illegal.' The sanctions, which include financial restrictions, are said to hurt not only Zimbabwe but the entire southern Africa region. While some experts like Stevenson Dhlamini agree with the government's assessment, others like Prosper Chitambara argue that multiple factors, including corruption and external shocks, have impacted the economy. Despite the sanctions, Chiwenga remains optimistic about Zimbabwe's economic future, attributing the sanctions to the country's land redistribution policies.

UNICEF reports a dire situation for 45 million children in eastern and southern Africa facing severe food insecurity exacerbated by climate change and the 2023-24 El Nino phenomenon. High rates of child malnutrition are worsening due to extreme weather. UNICEF is working with governments and communities to integrate climate education into schools. In Zimbabwe, families like Elita Ncube's are struggling with poverty and food scarcity, while the government, represented by Minister July Moyo, has not declared the drought a national disaster.

A charity group in Zimbabwe, The Noble Hands of Zimbabwe, is raising funds to provide sunscreen for people living with albinism. The group reported that one-in-three people with albinism in Zimbabwe die of skin cancer before the age of 40, including children as young as eight. The initiative aims to address this critical health need and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF party and opposition have reacted strongly to new US visa restrictions announced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, targeting individuals accused of undermining democracy. The US Embassy in Harare clarified that the policy aims to support free and fair elections. Former minister Jonathan Moyo and ZANU-PF spokesman Farai Muroiwa Marapira criticized the move, while opposition spokesman Promise Mkwananzi welcomed it, urging other governments and regional bodies to take similar actions. The opposition remains hopeful for fresh elections following the disputed August polls.

Amnesty International and the Media Institute of Southern Africa criticize Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for failing to uphold media freedoms and using legislation to target journalists and human rights defenders. Amnesty highlights the misuse of laws like the Cyber and Data Protection Act to oppress dissent, while MISA calls for practical implementation of access to information laws. Zimbabwe's Minister of Information, Jenfan Muswere, defends the government's actions, citing efforts to enhance access to information and legislative changes.

The U.S. has implemented new visa restrictions targeting individuals in Zimbabwe believed to undermine democracy, including electoral manipulation and human rights abuses. The ruling party, ZANU-PF, and former government minister Jonathan Moyo criticize the move, suggesting it aims to incite rebellion against the government. In contrast, the opposition party, Citizens’ Coalition for Change, supports the restrictions, hoping they will deter anti-democratic actions. The Southern African Development Community previously noted significant issues in Zimbabwe's recent elections.

The European Union is withdrawing $5 million in financial support to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission due to concerns over the commission's independence and transparency in the recent August elections. President Emmerson Mnangagwa won the election against Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change. Government spokesman Nick Mangwana dismissed the withdrawal as inconsequential, while opposition spokesman Promise Mkwananzi criticized the commission's lack of professionalism. The EU's observer mission, along with other regional bodies like the Southern Africa Development Community, condemned the election process. Various stakeholders, including opposition figures and political analysts, expressed differing views on the EU's involvement and the need for African self-reliance in electoral processes.

Rights groups Amnesty International and the Media Institute of Southern Africa criticize Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for failing to uphold media freedoms and using legislation to target journalists and human rights defenders. Amnesty International highlights the misuse of laws like the Cyber and Data Protection Act to oppress dissenting voices. MISA calls for a culture of openness and proactive information disclosure. Zimbabwe's Minister of Information, Jenfan Muswere, defends the government's actions, citing legislative changes aimed at enhancing access to information.

Zimbabwe, Africa's largest tobacco producer, is relying on this year's tobacco crop to help revive its struggling economy. Despite this, there is a decline in demand and increasing calls for the country to shift away from tobacco due to health concerns.

Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has shifted to door-to-door campaigns, claiming police authorities are denying them permits for public rallies. Police commissioner Paul Nyathi refutes these allegations. The report highlights the ongoing political tensions and campaign strategies in Zimbabwe's capital, Harare.

Zimbabwean economists and opposition members express confusion and skepticism towards President Emmerson Mnangagwa's claim at the United Nations General Assembly that Zimbabwe has the fastest growing economy in southern Africa. Reporter Columbus Mavhunga gathers reactions from residents, experts, and former finance authorities in Harare, highlighting the mixed reactions and doubts about the president's statement.

Zimbabwe's government is proceeding with oil drilling near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia, facing opposition from environmental activists who argue that fossil fuel exploration will harm the environment. The report highlights the ongoing conflict between economic development and environmental protection.

Women from small hold farms in Zimbabwe have mobilized resources to build a shelter for expectant mothers in rural areas, aiming to save lives by providing a place for pregnant women who live far from clinics to stay. This initiative is crucial for those who cannot reach a clinic in time to give birth, highlighting community support and health improvements in rural Zimbabwe.

Women from small hold farms in Zimbabwe have mobilized resources to build a shelter for expectant mothers in rural areas, aiming to save lives by providing closer access to medical care. The initiative is reported from Mashava, Zimbabwe, highlighting the community's efforts to support maternal health.

Zimbabwe, despite its wealth of natural resources including nearly 40 different minerals and one of the world's largest diamond deposits, continues to see the majority of its population living in poverty. Columbus Mavhunga reports from the Marange diamond fields, highlighting the local residents' desire for more equitable distribution of the country's mineral wealth.

Rights groups in Zimbabwe express concern over the arrests of human rights lawyers Douglas Coltart and Tapiwa Muchineripi, who were detained after advising police not to interview their hospitalized clients, opposition activists Womberaishe Nhende and Sonele Mukhuhlani. The activists claim they were abducted and tortured by suspected state agents. The arrests are seen as an attack on the legal profession's independence. Amnesty International calls for the protection of human rights and peaceful activism. The incident coincides with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's second-term inauguration, where he pledged to uphold democracy and the rule of law.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa reappointed Kembo Mohadi as vice president, a position he resigned from two years prior amid allegations of improper conduct. Mohadi and Constantino Chiwenga were sworn in for a five-year term, with both expressing their commitment to serve. The reappointment drew criticism on social media and from opposition figures like Linda Masarira, who highlighted the lack of female representation. Analyst Gibson Nyikadzino suggested the appointments were strategic for Mnangagwa's final term. Mnangagwa, who won the disputed general election against Nelson Chamisa, is expected to complete his cabinet soon.

Rights groups in Zimbabwe express concern over the arrests of human rights lawyers Douglas Coltart and Tapiwa Muchineripi, who were detained after advising police not to interview their hospitalized clients, opposition activists Womberaishe Nhende and Sonele Mukhuhlani. The activists claim they were abducted and tortured by suspected state agents. Amnesty International's Lucia Masuka condemns the prosecution of individuals for exercising human rights and calls for a peaceful post-election environment. The arrests occurred as President Emmerson Mnangagwa began his second term, pledging to uphold democracy and the rule of law, despite frequent accusations against the Zimbabwean government of intolerance and legal violations.

Emmerson Mnangagwa was inaugurated for his second term as Zimbabwe's president following a disputed election victory over Nelson Chamisa. The opposition claims the election was illegitimate and predicts continued economic stagnation. Mnangagwa promises to leverage Zimbabwe's natural resources to boost the economy. The inauguration was marked by a 21-gun salute and attended by three SADC presidents. The opposition and international observers have criticized the election process.

The U.S. Embassy in Harare, along with other international observers, expressed deep concerns about Zimbabwe's recent general election, citing issues with transparency, fairness, and voter intimidation. The ruling ZANU-PF party and government officials defended the election process, criticizing international observers. The election saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa seeking a second term amid significant irregularities and delays, particularly in opposition strongholds. The SADC observer mission also raised concerns but stopped short of declaring the election not credible. The situation remains tense as the country awaits the official results.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been declared the winner of Zimbabwe's general election by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, defeating opposition leader Nelson Chamisa. While Mnangagwa and his supporters celebrate the victory, Chamisa and election observers, including the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, allege that the election was rigged and marred by irregularities. Mnangagwa has called for peace as he begins his final term, but internal tensions and questions about the legitimacy of the election results persist.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been declared the winner of Zimbabwe's general election by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, a result disputed by the main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change. Mnangagwa called for peace as he begins his final term, while opposition leader Nelson Chamisa accused the commission of rigging the polls and vowed to form the next government. Election observers, including the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, condemned the conduct of the election, citing issues like ballot withholding in opposition strongholds. The legitimacy of the election results remains a contentious issue, with potential implications for internal tensions and the credibility of elections in Africa.

Human rights groups and election observers condemn the arrests of 35 independent election monitors in Zimbabwe, criticizing the government's crackdown on civil society. Amnesty International and the Carter Center express doubts about the necessity of the arrests, while the Southern African Development Community's preliminary report highlights several election irregularities. Despite these issues, the election process is noted to have been peaceful. President Emmerson Mnangagwa seeks a second term against 10 candidates, including Nelson Chamisa. Official results are expected by Monday.

Human rights groups and election observers criticize the arrest of 35 independent election monitors in Zimbabwe, charged with plotting to release unofficial poll results. Amnesty International and the Carter Center express concerns over the arrests, while the Southern African Development Community's preliminary report highlights election irregularities, including high registration fees and disrupted opposition rallies. Despite these issues, the report notes peaceful pre-election and voting phases. The ruling party, Zanu-PF, dismisses the report, while President Emmerson Mnangagwa seeks a second term against 10 candidates, including Nelson Chamisa. Official election results are expected soon.

Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has criticized the 2023 general elections, citing irregularities. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) extended voting in some locations, leading to concerns about the integrity of the election process. The report highlights the opposition's dissatisfaction with the handling of the elections and the extension of voting hours in certain areas.

Voting commenced in Zimbabwe with significant delays attributed to logistical issues as reported by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Both main presidential candidates remain optimistic about their chances of winning. The report is filed from Harare, the capital, highlighting the ongoing electoral process.

Zimbabwe's election faced significant delays and ballot paper shortages, attributed to legal issues encountered by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Voting was extended at some polling stations. Both main presidential candidates remain optimistic about their chances of winning.

Vote counting has commenced in Zimbabwe following a general election marked by delays and ballot paper shortages. Rights groups and observers have raised concerns about the electoral process. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission extended voting by an additional day in some areas.

Zimbabwe’s Electoral Commission (ZEC) attributed the massive delays and shortages of electoral materials on election day to legal problems faced prior to August 23. These issues led to the extension of voting into Thursday at some polling stations. The report was produced by Columbus Mavhunga from Harare.

Political parties in Zimbabwe are preparing for the general election on August 23, featuring President Emmerson Mnangagwa against Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens for Coalition for Change, along with nine other candidates.

Zimbabwe is set to hold general elections on Wednesday, August 23, featuring only one woman among the 11 presidential candidates. Despite an increase in the number of women candidates for parliamentary and council seats, gender activists believe there is still significant progress to be made in achieving gender parity in the nation's political landscape.

President Emmerson Mnangangwa and opposition leader Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens for Coalition for Change are the main parties vying for votes among other candidates in the upcoming general election in Zimbabwe.

Media analysts express concern over reports of journalists being harassed, attacked, or denied access while covering Zimbabwe's general elections. The incidents highlight ongoing challenges to media freedom in the country.

Economists in Zimbabwe accuse the government of artificially manipulating the country's currency to secure victory in the upcoming general elections. Inflation and the weak Zimbabwean dollar are central issues, with the main opposition party promising to abandon the currency if elected. The report highlights the political and economic tensions in Zimbabwe ahead of the elections.

Former American boxer Mayweather has shown support for Zimbabwe's ruling party, highlighting a cross-continental political endorsement. The article focuses on the political implications of this support and its potential impact on Zimbabwe's political landscape.

Zimbabwe's Supreme Court has disqualified former minister Savior Kasukuwere from running as a presidential candidate in the upcoming August elections, citing his prolonged absence from the country. The ruling, which upheld a previous High Court decision, has sparked criticism regarding the independence of the judiciary and the democratic process under the Zanu-PF-led government. The main opposition group, Citizens Coalition for Change, has also threatened to withdraw from the elections if their barred parliamentary candidates are not reinstated. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission supports the opposition candidates, asserting they met the nomination deadline.

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe criticized Pastor Evan Mawarire, the initiator of the #ThisFlag protest movement, as 'foreign sponsored' and suggested he leave the country. Mugabe's comments came during a funeral for Charles Utete, a senior government official. Mawarire, who had been arrested and then released following social media support, has been calling for the government to address economic failures and respect human rights. Zimbabwe's economy collapsed in 2009, leading to hyper-inflation and the adoption of a multicurrency system.