Zimbabwe Roundup: Journalist Detained, Currency Decline, and Job Losses

This article discusses key recent events in Zimbabwe, including the continued detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, Steve Hanke’s ranking of the ZiG currency, job losses from U.S. aid cuts, smuggling issues faced by truck drivers, and an increase in human-crocodile conflicts resulting in deaths and injuries.

On March 12, 2023, the High Court in Zimbabwe adjourned the case of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who is in custody since February 24 for alleged incitement related to interviews with a political figure critical of the government. Mhlanga’s bail request was denied by Justice Gibson Mandaza, citing the need for additional time to review the case. His lawyer, Chris Mhike, remarked that it would be inappropriate to comment on the ongoing proceedings.

Economist Steve Hanke has classified Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency as the second worst globally, following Venezuela’s Bolivar. Hanke’s analysis indicates that the ZiG has depreciated by 50% against the US dollar in the last ten months, primarily due to rampant inflation and diminished public trust. The currency, initially valued at US$1: ZiG2.50, now exchanges between ZiG33 and ZiG40 on the black market, contrasting with the official rate of US$1: ZiG26. The Reserve Bank maintains that the currency remains functional, despite its limited acceptance in essential sectors such as fuel and travel documentation.

The Trump administration’s cuts to aid have left thousands jobless in Zimbabwe as substantial funding reductions from the U.S. directly impact essential services. The reduction includes an 83% budget cut from USAID, discontinuing around 5,200 projects. In Zimbabwe, this results in the suspension of $388 million worth of USAID-funded programs, directly affecting NGOs and community efforts, particularly in sectors like health and the arts, according to Zimeye.

Zimbabwean authorities are intensifying efforts against truck drivers who are being coerced into smuggling banned goods, thereby jeopardizing legitimate transport operations. Freight News highlighted comments by Mike Fitzmaurice from the Transit Assistance Bureau, noting that smuggling primarily occurs at border crossings such as Beitbridge, where drivers face bribes, and goods may be smuggled over the river by foot. Previously utilized buses for smuggling have seen a crackdown from authorities.

In a concerning trend, Zimbabwe has witnessed a rise in human-crocodile conflicts, with nine fatalities and 11 injuries reported in just two months. According to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), there have been 49 documented incidences resulting in the loss of livestock, including 44 cattle and 60 goats. ZimParks has advised communities to remain vigilant near bodies of water, particularly during the rainy season, as reported by the New Zimbabwe.

The recent developments in Zimbabwe highlight significant challenges, including the imprisonment of a journalist, economic difficulties associated with the depreciating ZiG currency, and the adverse effects of U.S. aid reductions under the Trump administration. Additionally, concerns regarding transportation and environmental hazards such as croc attacks underscore the multifaceted crises facing the nation. As these issues evolve, they call for heightened awareness and proactive measures from both local authorities and the communities affected.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com