This article discusses several pressing issues in Zimbabwe, including the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, the depreciation of the ZiG currency amid inflation, significant job losses following U.S. aid cuts under the Trump administration, smuggling risks for truck drivers, and escalating human-crocodile conflicts resulting in fatalities and injuries.
In a recent development, a High Court judge in Zimbabwe has adjourned the case concerning journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who has been in custody since February 24. He is facing allegations of incitement linked to interviews with a critical war veteran-turned-politician. Although Mhlanga’s legal team sought bail, Justice Gibson Mandaza stated that additional time was necessary for case review, leaving Mhlanga and his lawyer, Chris Mhike, awaiting the court’s forthcoming decisions.
Prominent economist Steve Hanke has positioned Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency as the second worst in the world, following Venezuela’s Bolivar. His analysis indicates the ZiG has depreciated by 50% against the US dollar over the past ten months, primarily due to rampant inflation and eroding public trust. While the official exchange rate is US$1: ZiG26, on the black market, it fluctuates between ZiG33 and ZiG40, casting doubt on the currency’s viability, despite the Reserve Bank’s reassurances regarding its continued use in major sectors.
The recent cuts in U.S. funding under the Trump administration have resulted in significant job losses for thousands of Zimbabwean NGO and civil society workers. Critical sectors, including HIV programs and humanitarian aid, have been severely impacted by an 83% reduction in USAID’s global budget, leading to the termination of approximately 5,200 initiatives. In Zimbabwe, about $388 million in ongoing USAID-funded programs have been abruptly discontinued, greatly affecting local supports, as reported by Zimeye.
Moreover, Zimbabwean authorities are intensifying their efforts against truck drivers who are being coerced by smugglers to transport illegal goods. Mike Fitzmaurice from the Transit Assistance Bureau highlighted the prevalence of bribery at border points, particularly in Beitbridge, where goods often enter the country by foot. The previous use of buses for smuggling has diminished due to tightened regulatory controls.
Lastly, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority has documented a concerning increase in human-crocodile conflicts, resulting in nine fatalities and 11 injuries over the past two months. With 49 reported incidents, the loss extends to a considerable number of livestock. ZimParks has alerted local communities to remain cautious near water bodies, especially during the rainy season, according to reports from the New Zimbabwe.
In summary, Zimbabwe is facing multiple challenges, including the ongoing detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga due to alleged incitement, which raises concerns regarding press freedom. The country’s currency continues to struggle, losing value amid inflation and lack of trust, while significant U.S. funding cuts have triggered widespread job losses in critical sectors. Additionally, authorities are addressing the issue of smuggling among truck drivers and managing rising human-crocodile conflicts, underscoring the range of issues impacting the nation.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
