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ZESA executive chairman Sydney Gata has attributed the current power shortages in the country to illegal sanctions imposed on the country by Western powers, which have prevented the power utility and other entities from accessing concessionary loans for infrastructure development.
As a result, Zimbabweans are enduring daily blackouts lasting at least 15 hours in their homes and businesses.
To prevent the collapse of the national grid, ZESA has implemented stringent power rationing measures. 
In an exclusive interview with The Herald in Harare on Thursday, Gata explained that the power crisis has been further exacerbated by drought, which has severely reduced the water available for power generation at the Kariba Dam. Said Gata:
<blockquote>
We have been unfortunate with Kariba hydrology or Zambezi hydrology to be more accurate. We have lost the capacity of Kariba… drastic losses.
For instance, the power station is rated at 1050MW today but we are hardly producing 150MW.
What hurts the most is that Kariba is normally our baseload plant because it is cheap to deploy and also highly reliable.
Hydropower plants have less equipment on them and are more stable to operate than confined power plants throughout the world.
So, we lost our cheapest source of energy and our most reliable source of energy and that explains today’s load shedding.
</blockquote>
On October 22, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), ZESA’s power generating unit, reported that the country was producing a total of 1,012 MW of electricity.
This included 784 MW from Hwange, 184 MW from Kariba, and 43 MW from Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zimbabwe is facing power shortages because of sanctions. The sanctions stop Zimbabwe from getting loans for improving power. The country is having daily blackouts for at least 15 hours. ZESA is rationing power to avoid a national grid collapse. Drought is also making the power crisis worse. The Kariba Dam, which usually generates a lot of power, is producing much less now. Zimbabwe only has 1,012 MW of electricity being produced, which is much less than it needs. The situation is really bad because of the lack of power and water.

ZESA Blames Load Shedding On Western Sanctions

The United States Embassy in Zimbabwe says the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA) is a law and not a sanction.
This contradicts the ZANU PF-led government’s decades-long assertion that “illegal sanctions” imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States of America have devastated the economy and caused immense suffering for the citizens.
In a statement shared on its X page, the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe said that it has never had to invoke ZDERA to oppose international financial institutions’ loans or debt restructuring for Zimbabwe. It said:
<blockquote>
Is ZDERA a sanction? Why was it not removed?
The Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA) has not changed.  ZDERA is a legislative act and is not a sanction.
The United States has never had to invoke ZDERA to oppose international financial institutions’ loans or debt restructuring for Zimbabwe.
ZDERA outlines a clear roadmap for the United States to support the Government of Zimbabwe’s access to concessional financing and possible debt restructuring, but this could only happen once the Government of Zimbabwe has paid its outstanding debt arrears to the international community.
This is why the AfDB-facilitated dialogue is so important. The issues of democracy, governance, economic reform, and land reform addressed in that dialogue relate to many of the issues cited in ZDERA.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act Of 2001 was passed and ratified by the U.S. Congress purportedly to provide for a transition to democracy and to promote economic recovery in Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZDERA Is Not A Sanction, And Has Never Been Invoked - US Embassy

The United States Embassy in Zimbabwe has said the southern African country and its people are not sanctioned and never were.
In a statement issued this Monday, 13 May, the U.S. Embassy said the 11 Zimbabwean individuals and three entities designated by President Biden’s administration under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act are responsible for ongoing corruption and human rights abuses. It said:
<blockquote>
The country of Zimbabwe and its people are not sanctioned and never were. The United States government designated 11 individuals and three entities who are recently responsible for enabling serious corruption and gross human rights abuses in Zimbabwe.
President Biden determined that the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (GloMag) is the appropriate sanctions program to address our concerns regarding human rights and corruption in Zimbabwe. We have sharpened and refocused our approach.
GloMag specifically targets recent and ongoing behaviour, behaviours that are not isolated incidents but rather indicate a pattern of impunity.
</blockquote>
The 11 individuals are President Emmerson Mnangagwa, First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri, Police Commissioner Godwin Matanga and his deputy Stephen Mutamba, Walter Tapfumaneyi, Owen Ncube, Kuda Tagwirei, and his wife Sandra Mpunga, and Obey Chimuka.
The three entities on the sanctions list are Sakunda Holdings, Fossil Agro, and Fossil Contracting, linked to Tagwirei and Chimuka.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe And Its People Were Never Sanctioned - U.S. Embassy

Elaine French, the Chargé d’Affaires at the United States of America Embassy in Zimbabwe said the imposition of sanctions on 11 Zimbabweans including President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga does not impede her country’s ability to invest or trade with Zimbabwe.
Speaking <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/zim-free-to-trade-with-the-us/">in an interview</a> with AB Communications Editor-in-Chief Moses Matenga on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) where the Embassy was exhibiting, French said the designation of the 11 individuals creates an opportunity for the government to address human rights abuses and promote good governance.
On March 4, 2024, U.S. President Joe Biden terminated the Zimbabwe sanctions programme while the country’s Treasury imposed fresh restrictive measures under the Global Magnitsky Act of 2016 tightening sanctions on Mnangagwa and and 10 other individuals.
Matenga asked French about the various interpretations regarding Biden’s announcement in March and inquired about the current position on sanctions against Zimbabwe after March 4, 2024. In response, French said:
<blockquote>
It has come out a lot lately and it’s mainly because on March 4, President Biden announced the termination of the Zimbabwe sanctions programme and he designated 11 individuals and three companies on the sanctions program and we believe here at the US Embassy in Harare that this is really creating an opening for the government to commit to key reforms in particular on human rights abuses and good governance and Anti-Corruption.
We also see this as an opening for business, investors and banking to take a new look at Zimbabwe and see the opportunities here and consider investing in Zimbabwe.
The US Embassy is doing its best by trying to engage and educate US businesses and banking on what sanctions are and are not.
This new approach (on sanctions) is a global sanctions programme that the United States has around the world.
Honestly speaking, just because we have individuals on the list does not impede our ability to invest or trade with these countries.
</blockquote>
Asked to comment on the Zimbabwean government’s assertion that retaining Mnangagwa on the sanctions list betrays the claims that there are no more sanctions against Zimbabwe at the moment,  French reiterated the United States Embassy’s stance that there are not and have never been sanctions on the country of Zimbabwe or the people of Zimbabwe. She added:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Sanctions Programme had an extensive list of companies and individuals. This new designation only has 11 individuals and three companies.
We do not believe that 11 individuals and three companies equate to 16 million people. We cannot have 11 individuals undermine the capacity of the productivity of 16 million Zimbabweans.
We really feel they are creating a false narrative. We really feel that 16 million Zimbabweans can do a lot to trade with the US.
We really feel strongly that the majority of Zimbabweans are free to trade with the United States.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Free To Trade With The United States - U.S. Embassy Official

The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has confirmed the removal of sanctions imposed in 2003 by publishing the final rule to remove the Zimbabwe Sanctions Regulations.
OFAC <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240416_zimbabwe_cfr_removal.pdf">issued the final rule</a> to remove the Zimbabwe Sanctions Regulations from the Code of Federal Regulations on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
In February 2024, US President Joe Biden issued an executive order repealing the first order issued in March 2003 which blocked property of several political leaders in Zimbabwe for “undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe.”
The first order, issued by the then-US President George W Bush, was renewed over the years until its revocation this year.
Director, Office of Foreign Assets Control, Bradley T. Smith, confirmed yesterday that OFAC was taking this action because the national emergency on which part 541 was based was terminated by the president on March 4, 2024. He said:
<blockquote>
The rule is currently available for public inspection with the Federal Register and will take effect upon publication in the Federal Register on April 17, 2024.
</blockquote>
Last month OFAC designated 11 Zimbabwean individuals including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who became the first sitting head of State to be designated by the US under its Global Magnitsky Programme.
They were designated for their alleged involvement in corruption and serious human rights abuse.
The list also includes Mnangagwa’s wife, Auxillia, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, Defence minister Oppah Muchinguri, Midlands Provincial Affairs minister Owen Ncube, Central Intelligence Organisation deputy director Walter Tapfumaneyi, businessman Obey Chimuka and tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei as well as his wife Sandra.
Sakunda Holdings, Fossil Agro, and Fossil Contracting, linked to Tagwirei and Chimuka, were also placed on the new sanctions list.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

United States Removes Zimbabwe Sanctions Regulations

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said Zimbabwe must strive to thrive despite the difficulties the nation is currently facing due to sanctions imposed by Western countries, particularly the United States of America.
Speaking to businesspeople at the Second Edition of the ED Mnangagwa Business Summit held in the capital Harare on Friday, Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe has been resilient for more than two decades under sanctions.
He also scoffed at claims by U.S. officials that the Zimbabwe Development and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA) is not a sanction and that Zimbabwe’s economic problems were caused by mismanagement and widespread corruption. Mnangagwa said (<a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/sanctions-will-not-deter-zims-development-trajectory-ed/">via Business Times</a>):
<blockquote>
Despite the challenges that we are facing, due to the continued illegal and heinous sanctions from the United States of America, we must push the frontiers of our country’s success and prosperity. This task and burden rests upon us as Zimbabweans.
We have been resilient for the last 23 years under sanctions, and no amount of propaganda, under whatever guise, will fool us.
All forms of illegal sanctions on Zimbabwe must be immediately and unconditionally removed.
These sanctions are illegal, unjustified, and cruel to all the people of Zimbabwe…
We have come this far under sanctions, we have realised unprecedented success milestones and registered indisputable GDP growth; we shall keep marching forward.
We are a resilient people and the descendants of the Great Munhumutapa. Against all odds, we are realising prosperity and a higher quality of life for our people.
</blockquote>
The United States imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe in 2001 due to concerns related to human rights abuses, corruption, and undermining democratic processes.
The sanctions targeted specific individuals and entities associated with these violations and were aimed to block the assets of those involved and restrict their travel to the United States.
President Joe Biden recently signed an Executive Order terminating the national emergency with respect to Zimbabwe, effectively revoking Zimbabwe-specific sanctions.
However, on 04 March 2024, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated 11 individuals, including Mnangagwa, and three entities for their alleged involvement in corruption or serious human rights abuse.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"We Are Children Of The Great Munhumutapa", Sanctions Will Not Stop Zimbabwe's Development - Mnangagwa

Political analysts say the United States government’s new regime of sanctions against Zimbabwe’s top government officials and their enablers will not stop rampant corruption and the abuse of human rights in the country.
On March 4, the U.S. government imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, his wife Auxilia, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei along with his wife, Sandra Mpunga, and several other senior government officials and alleged business partners, for corruption and human rights abuses.
U.S. President, Joe Biden, scrapped the old executive sanction order introduced in 2003 and replaced it with the Global Magnitsky sanctions.
The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act is a significant piece of legislation enacted in December 2016. It empowers the President of the United States to take specific actions against foreign individuals or entities engaged in human rights violations or corruption.
Sanctions under the Global Magnitsky programme aim to target systemic corruption and human rights abuse, including the networks that engage in, facilitate, or perpetuate sustained patterns of such illicit behaviour rather than incidental acts by individual targets.
Speaking to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/critics-slam-new-sanctions-on-zim-officials-as-ineffective/">CITE</a>, Future Msebele, a political analyst, said that the new sanctions regime will not bring an end to the suffering of Zimbabweans. Said Msebele:
<blockquote>
We, the downtrodden masses, believe that the targeted sanctions have not worked against the Regime. In reality, sanctions have been used by the corrupt and failing government as an excuse for its failures.
There are many loopholes, weak enforcement of the sanctions, no clear strategy, and weak communication of the political objectives have undermined the effectiveness of the sanctions.
We are still at the same point, if not worse off. We still have human rights abuses, we are still calling for political and electoral reforms.
It is time to think of alternative ways to deal with corrupt regimes. Sanctions have proven to be ineffective, and the achievement of primary political objectives has remained elusive.
</blockquote>
Another political analyst, Bernard Magugu, told CITE that “nothing has changed except that the sanctions were updated”. He said:
<blockquote>
The sanctions were lifted from several people who were in power before, and there is now a distinction between these small fish from the past, and top targets who are leading now.
Another point to factor in is the removal of the 2003 Executive Order, which was repeatedly renewed in subsequent years highlighting human rights and democratic reforms, showing that the influence of civic society organisations, activists, or opposition politicians is dwindling, which is a setback for the country. This may mean that human rights violations will continue unabated.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

United States' New Sanctions On Zimbabwean Officials Ineffective - Analysts

A United States government official said the Zimbabwe Development and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA) is not a sanction.
ZDERA was signed into law on 21 December 2001 by then United States President George W. Bush in response to Zimbabwe’s “fast-track land reform” programme.
The Act restricted Zimbabwe’s participation in programs by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Monetary Fund. It also resulted in the suspension of structural loans, credits, and guarantees to the Zimbabwean government.
Speaking at a press conference at Crowne Plaza in Harare on Wednesday, 06 March, Laurence Socha, the Chargé d’Affaires at the United States Embassy in Zimbabwe said that Zimbabwe’s economic problems were caused by mismanagement and widespread corruption, and not by ZDERA. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Development and Economic Recovery Act has not changed. But ZDERA is not a sanction. We have never invoked ZDERA to oppose international financial institutions from loans or debt restructuring.
It outlines, ZDERA outlines a clear roadmap for the government of Zimbabwe to access concessional financing and possible debt restructuring.
But this can only happen once the government of Zimbabwe has paid its outstanding debt arrears to the International Community. Messaging on ZDERA might be catchy, but ZDERA is not the problem.
ZDERA is not the cause of Zimbabwe’s economic troubles. Decades of economic mismanagement and widespread corruption are, and they have directly caused lasting economic impacts.
</blockquote>
On Monday, 04 March, the U.S. government sanctioned President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, and 9 other influential Zimbabweans under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
The U.S. government accuses Mnangagwa and the other 10 sanctioned individuals of egregious corruption and violating human rights.
Responding to a question about why the U.S. government decided to impose targetted sanctions on certain individuals at this point, Socha said:
<blockquote>
President Biden has determined that the authorities in the executive orders that he signed that implement the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act is the best approach to address human rights and corruption concerns in Zimbabwe.
The US has made regular adjustments to the previously now terminated Zimbabwe sanctions program including adding and removing individuals based on available evidence. U.S. sanctions are not intended to be permanent.
Our sanctions are most effective when they are up to date and reflect realities on the ground and that’s why we made the change this time.
</blockquote>
Socha reiterated the U.S. government’s stance that there are no sanctions on the people of Zimbabwe or its public. He said:
<blockquote>
There are no sanctions on the people of Zimbabwe or its public. I think it’s important to realize that the security and prosperity of a country are not dependent on one individual alone.
The 11 individuals and three entities that are now sanctioned under Global Magnitsky have been determined to be responsible for corruption and human rights abuses.
But I want to leave you with this. We see this as an opportunity. We know it’s an opportunity. We see it as an opening.
We see it as an opportunity for the Government of Zimbabwe to make good on the democratic reforms that it says 
it’s committed to. We see it as an opportunity for business to have a new look at Zimbabwe.
It was hard under the previous program titled the Zimbabwe Sanctions Program to get away from perceptions that you could not do business in Zimbabwe. That’s not true.
And so we hope that business and financial institutions have a new look at Zimbabwe’s markets and connections with its people.
But lastly, we see this as an opening for a constructive relationship between the people of the United States and Zimbabwe so that all 16 million people here have the opportunity to prosper.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZDERA Is Not A Sanction, Says U.S. Official

<h2>Full statement by the Deputy Chief Secretary (Presidential Communications), Office of the President and Cabinet, George Charamba on U.S. sanctions on Zimbabwe issued on 06 March 2024:</h2>
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe has been under the United States of America’s formal illegal sanctions since 2001 when the so-called Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act, ZDERA, was promulgated by America as part of a raft of reprisals for Zimbabwe’s legal Land Reform Programme, and as an open and frontal challenge to Zimbabwe’s sovereignty as a fully-fledged independent African Nation under the United Nations Charter.
That heinous Act which the United States of America passed unilaterally, and outside the confines and auspices of international law and the United Nations respectively, was given effect through a series of equally illegal Executive Orders by successive Presidents of the US, by which the US Government sought to make laws and punitive policies for a sovereign African State with which it shares neither common geography nor history, and against which it has no defensible legal case. All those measures were illegal and unjustified then; they remain so to this very day and until they are unconditionally dropped.
The announcement two days ago, on 4th March 2024, by US President Joseph R. Biden, purporting to rescind all illegal Executive Orders passed by his predecessors since March 6, 2003, some 21 years later after these debilitating sanctions against our Nation, can never atone for, let alone write off, heinous crimes committed against Zimbabwe and her people through these illegal, blanket country; sanctions.
Noteworthy, these arbitrary US coercive measures against Zimbabwe were condemned by the United Nations as illegal, vindictive and unjustified under any pretext. Until now, the United States Government remained obdurate and indifferent.
Today Zimbabwe cannot be expected to thank or be grateful to President Biden and the US for announcing palliative measures towards finally rescinding an illegality and an outrage, even then at its own pace, perpetrated for more than two decades, and in flagrant violation of international law.
Nothing short of some prompt, unconditional removal in toto of those illegal coercive measures, including the infamous ZDERA, is acceptable to Zimbabwe and her long-abused, innocent people.
Further, Zimbabwe takes great exception to gratuitous slander, and defamatory remarks by officials of the Biden Administration against the sanctioned Zimbabwean leadership and its nationals. This slander has been repeated here on Zimbabwean soil by local staff of the United States Embassy.
What adds to the outrage is that these bald and damaging accusations, coldly and mechanically made through a pre-drafted standard text of high-handed pillory by the US, are not backed by any iota of evidence; nor do they follow any internationally recognized show of due process in competent courts.
We condemn these malicious statements as completely uncalled for, defamatory, provocative, and a continuation of wanton hostilities against Zimbabwe by the US Government.
We demand that the Biden Administration provides evidence in support of these gratuitous accusations, failure which the Administration must, without any further delay, withdraw them unconditionally.
It cannot be right, let alone a healthy basis for conducting international relations or building friendship, for a country, however mightily it views itself, to slander innocent nationals of other Nations, while also maligning those same Nations for daring to be independent and sovereign, and for reversing a baneful legacy of settler colonialism, in line with the United Nations Charter.
Might can never be right, or trash rights of Nations, however small, which are recognised as full members, under the United Nations Charter.
Zimbabwe reiterates its deep gratitude to the Southern Africa Development Community, SADC, the African Union, AU, the progressive world and the United Nations, UN, for supporting her just struggle against these illegal coercive US measures.
Zimbabwe urges these organizations, and all men and women of goodwill worldwide, to maintain the momentum against the so-called targeted sanctions, which in reality are country sanctions, and which must be removed in toto, and unconditionally.
Further, Zimbabwe extends solidarity to all peoples and Nations similarly affected by such illegal sanctions from any quarter, outside the framework of the United Nations.
As a government leading a country with pretensions to global leadership, the Biden Administration must lead by example in showing the rest of the world how to act in accord with international law, rather than acting arbitrarily, both at bilateral and global levels.
On its part, Zimbabwe will stand firm in defence of her hard-won sovereignty, and in pursuit of her chosen destiny, consistent with its policy of being a friend to all, and an enemy to none. No amount of sanctions or hostilities will deter or detract her from her chosen path.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Responds To "Termination" Of Sanctions By United States Of America

Laurence Socha, the Chargé d’Affaires at the United States Embassy in Zimbabwe has said the primary goal of targetted sanctions is to bring about positive changes and behaviour.
On Monday, 04 March, the U.S. government sanctioned President Emmerson Mnangaga, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, and 9 other influential Zimbabweans under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
The U.S. government accuses Mnangagwa and the other 10 sanctioned individuals of egregious corruption and violating human rights.
Responding to questions from journalists during a press conference at Crowne Plaza in Harare this Wednesday, 06 March, Socha said the U.S. sanctions are not intended to be permanent. He said:
<blockquote>
The 11 individuals and three entities sanctioned under the current Global Magnitsky designations are there for their flagrant human rights abuses and corrupt behaviour.
U.S. policy, our policy has not changed. Our policy on Zimbabwe supports the citizens of Zimbabwe and its democratic institutions. That has not changed.
But this is a shift in approach and it’s consistent with our focus on corrupt actors and human rights abusers. U.S. sanctions are not intended to be permanent.
One of the primary goals of U.S. sanctions is to bring about positive changes and behaviour.
That might take time, but we encourage the government of Zimbabwe, including members of the government named in these March 4th designations, to take concrete steps towards democratic reforms that they have said that they seek.
</blockquote>
The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act is a significant piece of legislation enacted in December 2016. It empowers the President of the United States to take specific actions against foreign individuals or entities engaged in human rights violations or corruption.
Sanctions under the Global Magnitsky programme aim to target systemic corruption and human rights abuse, including the networks that engage in, facilitate, or perpetuate sustained patterns of such illicit behaviour rather than incidental acts by individual targets.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"The Goal Of U.S. Sanctions Is To Bring About Positive Changes And Behaviour"

The United States government has reiterated that sanctions against certain Zimbabweans in positions of power and influence are not targeted at the country or ordinary people.
On 04 February, United States President, Joe Biden, terminated the Zimbabwe Sanctions Programme which has been in effect since 2003.
That same day, the United States government imposed sanctions on 11 Zimbabweans and three companies for 
alleged corruption and human rights abuses.
Addressing journalists at Crowne Plaza in Harare this Wednesday, 06 March, Laurence Socha, the Chargé d’Affaires at the United States Embassy in Zimbabwe said the U.S. will ensure that its sanctions are targeted against individuals responsible for corruption and serious human rights abuses. He said:
<blockquote>
The United States is committed to upholding the core values of respect for human rights and responsible, transparent governance.
We have expressed and continue to have concerns regarding serious cases of human rights abuses and corruption in Zimbabwe.
On March 4th, President Biden signed an Executive Order terminating the Zimbabwe Sanctions Program which has been in effect since 2003.
That same day, the U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (or OFAC) designated 11 individuals and three entities for their engagement in corruption and human rights abuses under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
The United States is committed to ensuring our sanctions are timely, relevant, and targeted against individuals responsible for corruption and serious human rights abuses.
In Zimbabwe, we continue to witness gross abuses of political, economic, and human rights. The targeting of civil society and severe restrictions on political activity have stifled fundamental freedoms while key actors including government leaders have siphoned off government resources for personal gains.
Sanctions on these individuals and entities do not represent a sanction on Zimbabwe or its public. The United States reaffirms its commitment to working with the people of Zimbabwe.
This sanctions transition makes clear what has always been true. U.S. sanctions are not on the country of Zimbabwe. We are refocusing our sanctions on specific and clear individuals and entities.
We continue to urge the government of Zimbabwe to take concrete steps to more open and democratic governance including addressing corruption and protecting human rights.
</blockquote>
The 11 designated individuals are President Mnangagwa and his wife, Auxillia, businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei and his wife Sandra Mpunga, Obey Chimuka, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, ZRP Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri, ZRP Deputy Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba, CIO Deputy Director Walter Tapfumaneyi and former State Security Minister Owen Ncube.
Fossil Agro Private Limited, Fossil Contracting Private Limited, and Sakunda Holdings Private Limited are the designated entities.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Sanctions Are Targeted At Corrupt Individuals And Human Rights Violators, Says U.S. Embassy Official

The United States government has imposed sanctions on President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Central Intelligence (CIO) deputy director Walter Tapfumaneyi, and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
In a statement, United States National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson said the four individuals have been designated (sanctioned) under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, for their involvement in corruption or serious human rights abuse. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, we continue to witness gross abuses of political, economic, and human rights. The targeting of civil society and severe restrictions on political activity have stifled fundamental freedoms, while key actors, including government leaders, have siphoned off public resources for personal gains.
These illicit activities support and contribute to a global criminal network of bribery, smuggling, and money laundering that impoverishes communities in Zimbabwe, southern Africa, and other parts of the world.
In response to new and continuing corruption and serious human rights abuse, the United States is refocusing and elevating its efforts to hold accountable the individuals and entities that are responsible for this exploitation.
Today, the United States is employing a new set of tools in Zimbabwe, including the flagship Global Magnitsky sanctions program, to make clear that the egregious behavior of some of the most powerful people and companies in Zimbabwe matches the actions of the worst human rights abusers and corrupt actors globally. 
Specifically, the Department of the Treasury is designating three entities and eleven individuals, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Brigadier General (Retired) Walter Tapfumaneyi, and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, for their involvement in corruption or serious human rights abuse.
These designations build on recent U.S. Government actions, including pausing U.S. participation in the African Development Bank Dialogue and utilizing the Department of State’s new visa restriction policy for undermining democracy in Zimbabwe.
These steps are concurrent with the termination of the preexisting Zimbabwe sanctions program that began in March 2003 and expanded on in subsequent orders. Actions to retire the previous sanctions program and designate key actors under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program are part of an ongoing effort to ensure we are promoting accountability for serious human rights abuse and corruption in a targeted and strategic manner. 
Sanctions on these individuals and entities do not represent sanctions on Zimbabwe or its public. The Administration reaffirms its commitment to work with the people of Zimbabwe; will continue to robustly support civil society, human rights defenders, and independent media to promote values consistent with the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act of 2001; and take additional measures to hold accountable those who deny Zimbabweans the democratic freedoms and good governance they deserve.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

United States Imposes Sanctions On President Mnangagwa, Three Others

Bikita South MP, <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Energy_Mutodi">Energy Mutodi</a> (ZANU PF) has moved a motion asking Parliament to send a team of parliamentarians to the United States of America to request Congress to remove sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe over two decades ago.
The United States imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe through the enactment of the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA) back in 2001 alleging rampant rights abuses and poll fraud under late former President Robert Mugabe’s government.
The measures were imposed after the Mugabe administration embarked on a controversial land reform programme characterised by violence targeted at white farmers.
The sanctions include a travel ban on targeted Zimbabwean authorities, among them security chiefs, businessman Kuda Tagwirei and former State Security Minister Owen Ncube, coupled with a trade embargo between US and local firms.
As reported by <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mutodi-pushes-zimbabwe-mps-visit-to-us-to-lobby-sanctions-removal/">ZimLive</a>, Mutodi said a high-powered delegation comprising legislators would put weight behind the call for sanctions removal.
Mutodi made the call while supporting his motion in parliament on Thursday last week. He said:
<blockquote>
Now, therefore, resolves that a delegation from Zimbabwe Parliament be sent to the United States of America to present a briefing paper to the President of the United States of America and Congress requesting their administration to expeditiously and unconditionally repeal ZIDERA which has caused so much suffering to ordinary citizens of our country;
The delegation engages the United States of America Congress to lift the unwarranted and illegal sanctions on Zimbabwe; Zimbabwe presents its case to the United Nations by the end of December 2024 so that these illegal sanctions imposed on our country are unconditionally lifted once and for all; and The United States of America Government to engage with the Zimbabwean government on terms that promote mutual benefit through economic and political cooperation, put and agreed to.
I have no doubt that the presence of the high-powered delegation from the Parliament of Zimbabwe will be of great impact as it will allow the inauguration or commencement of effective engagement between the Parliament of Zimbabwe and Congress.
</blockquote>
The ZANU PF-led Government continues to blame the country’s economic challenges on sanctions imposed by the US and its European allies.
The Government claim the sanctions have caused Zimbabwe over US$100 billion in terms of economic losses since they were imposed.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mutodi Wants Zimbabwean MPs To Visit U.S. To Lobby For Sanctions Removal

The ruling party in Zimbabwe, ZANU PF, has expressed disappointment with the European Union’s decision to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/02/04/eu-renews-zimbabwe-sanctions-for-another-year-citing-the-situation/">extend the arms embargo on the country.</a> They believe that the EU should consider the professionalism of the Zimbabwean security forces and their commitment to human rights when making such decisions.
The EU recently renewed its restrictive measures for another year, until February 20, 2025. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the reason for the extension is cited as “the situation” in Zimbabwe. The sanctions include an arms and equipment embargo that could be used for internal repression, as well as a targeted freeze on assets belonging to Zimbabwe Defence Industries.
In response, Farai Marapira, the ZANU PF Director for Information and Publicity, stated that this decision hinders the country’s progress towards prosperity. He emphasised that Zimbabwe remains dedicated to peace, stability, and good governance. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zanu-pf-condemns-arms-embargo-extension/">The Herald</a> quoted him as saying:
<blockquote>
As Zanu PF, we are disappointed but not surprised to learn about the EU’s decision to extend the arms embargo on Zimbabwe.
This decision further undermines our efforts to build a prosperous nation. We remain committed to peace, stability, and good governance.
The EU must recognise our comprehensive reforms and engage constructively. These reforms implemented under the able leadership of His Excellency, President Dr ED Mnangagwa are undeniably palpable.
</blockquote>
He also praised the Zimbabwean security forces for their “professionalism and adherence to human rights”. Marapira argued that it is time to rebuild trust, promote dialogue, and lift the outdated restrictions imposed on Zimbabwe.

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<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/28/august-1-victims-families-yet-to-be-compensated/">August 1 Victims’ Families Yet To Be Compensated</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/29/full-text-motlanthe-commission-was-set-up-to-absolve-ed-zanu-pf-and-army-from-august-1-killings/">FULL TEXT: Motlanthe Commission Was Set Up To Absolve ED, ZANU PF And Army From August 1 Killings</a></li>
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The Zimbabwean army is facing accusations of violating the rights of its citizens, particularly during election periods. Critics claim that instead of operating independently as a state entity, the army follows instructions from the ruling party, ZANU PF. This raises concerns that the availability of arms could be used to further infringe upon human rights. However, it’s important to note that the army has also participated in peacekeeping missions under the United Nations, African Union, and Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Marapira concluded by expressing Zimbabwe’s willingness to work with the EU and demonstrate their commitment to a peaceful and prosperous nation. He emphasized that Zimbabwe keeps its doors open and hopes for a return of common sense in the West.
The sanctions on Zimbabwe were initially imposed in 2011 due to alleged human rights violations under the leadership of the late Robert Mugabe. They have been renewed annually since then, with some entities and individuals being removed or added to the sanctions list.
Proponents of the sanctions, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, argue that they are targeted and do not harm the general population or the country’s economy. However, ZANU PF, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union, and the United Nations contend that the sanctions have unintended consequences for ordinary people and entities. They argue that the sanctions have hindered Zimbabwe’s ability to trade with neighbouring countries, affecting not only the Zimbabwean economy but also that of its neighbours.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU PF Disappointed As EU Extends Arms Embargo On Zimbabwe

ZANU PF chief whip <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Pupurai_Togarepi">Pupurai Togarepi</a> has called for the enactment of a law that prohibits Zimbabweans who call for sanctions to be imposed on the country from running for public office.
Speaking in the National Assembly recently, Togarepi said the laws of Zimbabwe are “too soft” as they allow “sell-outs” and “Judas Iscariots” to participate in elections when they are undermining the country’s sovereignty.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/we-are-too-soft-zanu-pf-pushes-for-law-barring-opposition-members-inviting-sanctions-from-running-in-elections/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Togarepi made the comments during a debate on the impact of economic sanctions that were imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States of America and Britain. Said Togarepi:
<blockquote>
As a country at war, it is unfortunate to have some of our people supporting sanctions, going to these places to ask for sanctions.
I want to remind this House that there was a motion that was moved to say that those who look for sanctions must never participate in the governance of this country.
We are too democratic as a people, too democratic for comfort. Why would we even entertain an election with people who are sponsored to destroy Zimbabwe?
Why would we have an opposition that is totally, clearly and vehemently against Zimbabwe and allow them to participate in a democratic election, when they are sanctioning us?
We are a country at war and there are surrogates of imperialism who come here, go to an election with us, sponsored by the same people, we are too soft.
We have people who died for the freedom of Zimbabwe. Some who have no limbs, some who could not even have kids, others whom we do not even know where they were buried trying to liberate this country.
Somebody goes to the same colonisers to say destroy this population, destroy these people to give life to themselves because they are sell-outs. They are sell-outs, they are Judas Iscariots.
</blockquote>
Togarepi said Zimbabwe should no longer allow companies from Western countries to invest in the country. He said:
<blockquote>
We continue to engage them in goodwill. We do all the businesses that we do, we are the most honest people in the world but these self-imposed policemen of the world continue to impose sanctions on our people.
We cannot continue to handle them with kid gloves. It is time that we say this is a war declared on us and our economy.
The same people who sanctioned our country cannot come and do business here. They should stop doing business here.
They cannot make money out of our lithium, our gold, diamond et cetera, while they use the same money to destroy our economy. I think this should come to an end.
</blockquote>
The United States imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe through the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA) in the early 2000s over alleged human rights violations.
The U.S. Government passed ZDERA after Zimbabwe embarked on a Land Reform Programme that was marred by violence.
Since the formation of the MDC in 1999, ZANU PF has habitually accused opposition political parties of calling for sanctions to be imposed on the country to facilitate regime change.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Wants Law Barring Citizens Who "Invite" Sanctions From Running For Public Office

ZANU PF party Members of Parliament (MPs) have requested Parliament permission to fly to the United States to lobby for the lifting of sanctions that were imposed on the country after the fast-track land reform program in the early 2000s.
Bikita South legislator, Energy Mutodi, stated that they want the sanctions program, known as the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA), to be repealed, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021448/zanu-pf-mps-lobby-for-us-visit">NewsDa</a>y reported. He said while raising a motion on sanctions:
<blockquote>
Mindful that the imposition of these illegal sanctions has led to massive skills flight resulting in our people migrating to seek employment and other opportunities elsewhere.
Now, therefore, resolves that a delegation from Zimbabwe Parliament be sent to the US to present a briefing paper to the President of the US and Congress requesting their administration to expeditiously and unconditionally repeal ZIDERA which has caused so much suffering to ordinary citizens of our country.
The delegation will engage the US Congress to lift the unwarranted and illegal sanctions on Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
His remarks were echoed by Chegutu East legislator, Webster Shamu. The ZANU PF party blames the sanctions for the economic challenges faced in the country and the resulting poverty among the citizens.
However, the US denies these claims and instead accuses Zimbabwean authorities of corruption and mismanagement of the economy. The motion to have ZIDERA removed is based on a report by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Permanent Mission in Geneva, which highlights the impact of the sanctions on Zimbabwe and the entire SADC region.
Zimbabwean legislators argue that the sanctions have led to a significant loss of potential revenue and have negatively affected key sectors such as mining and agriculture. They believe that the sanctions have also tarnished the country’s image, making it less attractive to investors and donors.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZANU PF MPs Want To Fly To USA To Lobby For The Lifting Of Sanctions

The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has introduced new regulations aimed at individuals who undermine democracy in Zimbabwe. These regulations specifically target those involved in election rigging, human rights violations, and abuse of the judicial system during electoral processes.
Additionally, the policy also focuses on individuals who impede the operations of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) due to the implementation of the Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Bill, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/us-tightens-screws-on-zimbabwe-announces-regulations-targeted-at-those-responsible-for-rigging-elections-targeting-ngos-capturing-courts/">NewZimbabwe</a> reported citing Blinken. Blinken said:
<blockquote>
Under this policy, the United States will pursue visa restrictions, pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, for individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Zimbabwe.
Such acts may include manipulating or rigging the electoral process; disenfranchising voters or preventing individuals from exercising their right to vote; excluding members of the political opposition from electoral processes; restricting the ability of civil society organizations (CSOs) to operate and engage in democratic, governance, or human rights related activities; or intimidation of voters, election observers, or CSOs through threats or acts of physical violence.
They may also include engaging in corrupt acts, including bribery, that undermine the electoral process; interfering with the independent operation of the judiciary during its adjudication of electoral cases; or abusing or violating human rights in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s attempts to re-establish a relationship with the United States have faced obstacles since he assumed power in 2017. Many high-ranking officials in the ruling Zanu PF party, as well as some government officials, are already subject to U.S. sanctions, preventing them from travelling to the United States for personal reasons.
The strained relationship between the two countries has been exacerbated by Zimbabwe’s deteriorating human rights record and the disputed August elections, which did not meet international standards. These ongoing issues have contributed to the persistence of tensions between Zimbabwe and the United States.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

America To Deny Visas To Zimbabweans Involved In Corruption, Undermining Democracy

Prominent Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono has criticised South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for what he calls pushing “tired ZANU PF propaganda” that sanctions imposed by Western powers are responsible for Zimbabwe’s economic collapse that has driven millions to migrate to neighbouring countries and further afield.
Addressing the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York, United States of America, on Tuesday, Ramaphosa said the sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe have a negative impact on neighbouring countries, including South Africa.
Posting on X, Chin’ono said Zimbabwe is not under a trade embargo as Zimbabwean entities can still export various products without any hindrance.
Former President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s top aide, Petina Gappah, accused Chin’ono of “misleading” people, adding “There is, and has never been, a trade embargo on Zimbabwe.”
In response, Chin’ono said only people who are pushing ZANU PF propaganda will argue that sanctions destroyed Zimbabwe’s economy.
Chin’ono said on the contrary, massive looting of public funds, plunder of the country’s natural resources, grand incompetence, family nepotism and greed are at the centre of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis. Wrote Chin’ono:
<blockquote>
We know that sanctions against individuals in Zimbabwe are not multilateral, and anyone not doing ZANUPF propaganda knows that they are not the reason why Zimbabwe collapsed.
The reason why we mention our ability to do trade is that in rural areas Zimbabweans are lied to that the country can’t trade that is why the economy has collapsed, every Zimbabwean has seen this on TV, and of course it is a LIE!
We also know that there is no trade embargo against Zimbabwe which is why I used that example of blueberries, unlike what ZANUPF says when lying to rural people, hence the deceptive ZANUPF propaganda we always point out.
We also know that Rhodesia was under a proper multilateral sanctions regime with a trade embargo, yet it prospered because there was very minimal corruption.
It is a fact that the national hardware that we use today from hospitals, schools and roads were built during the Rhodesian days, under a proper sanctions regime and trade embargo.
That is why we ask why ZANU-PF blames targeted sanctions for its tragic failures yet it can trade and sell its minerals openly, something that Smith couldn’t do yet he built the country under a proper trade embargo.
No single referral hospital was built in post-colonial Zimbabwe except for Chitungwiza which was a Rhodesian provincial hospital and was only upgraded to a referral hospital in the 1980s.
Anyone honest knows that Zimbabwe has collapsed not because of targeted sanctions, but because of the massive looting of public funds, plunder of the country’s natural resources, grand incompetence, family nepotism and greed.
The suffering of Zimbabweans today that President Cyril Ramaphosa talked about includes the Zimbabwean women who are crossing into South Africa to give birth to Musina because the biggest hospital in Zimbabwe ONLY has one maternity theatre built by Ian Smith in 1977.
This influx of Zimbabweans into South Africa has caused tensions between South African locals and their government, which is why Ramaphosa talks about the Zimbabwean problem and points to sanctions as the driver, which is false!
Any honest reader of the Zimbabwean situation knows that it is not caused by sanctions but corruption, a lot of it!
The world knows that 2 500 Zimbabwean women die giving birth in Zimbabwe because there are no maternity theatres.
The world also knows that 70% of women who give birth at Musina Hospital in South Africa are Zimbabwean, hence President Ramaphosa’s call that his country is affected and its public services are under pressure.
Now here is the crux of the matter which I must address as a respected journalist should do, we all know that it only costs US$37,000 to build a maternity theatre.
We all know that the Zimbabwean Government lands a Landcruiser at US$400,000, although it is much cheaper than that. 3/4 of that money is looted from that 400k bill per each Landcruiser.
We also know that the Zimbabwean Government has thousands of these Landcruisers for its ZANUPF political elites.
Ministers get three cars each every cycle, chiefs get brand new cars ahead of hospitals, government bureaucrats get these Landcruisers every 2 to 3 years and keep the “old” ones.
We also know that just ONE Landcruiser would build 11 maternity theatres.
Based on these proven material facts, it is a blatant big fat LIE that Zimbabweans (particularly women running to SA) are doing so on account of targeted sanctions.
That is why I always ask how can a country that can trade fails to build a maternity theatre.
The unilateral sanctions don’t and can’t stop that!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Looting, Plunder, Incompetence, Family Nepotism And Greed Caused Zim's Economic Collapse, NOT Sanctions - Chin'ono

The hopes of a new chapter in Zimbabwe following the ouster of the late former president Robert Mugabe in 2017 have not been realised, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/as-zimbabwes-elections-approach-u-s-sanctions-take-center-stage/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> reports. Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mugabe’s successor, promised sweeping political, economic and social reforms but instead, his regime has become increasingly repressive, curtailing dissent and cracking down on political opponents, according to observers.
As Zimbabwe heads for its August 23 general election, activists and others say Mnangagwa’s regime is increasingly cracking down on critics. They say repression has continued in the face of targeted U.S. sanctions against senior members of the regime, sparking a debate over their effectiveness. U.S. president Joe Biden said in a March message to the U.S. Congress:
<blockquote>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has not made the necessary political and economic reforms that would warrant terminating the existing targeted sanctions program. Throughout last year, government security services routinely intimidated and violently repressed citizens, including members of opposition political parties, union members and journalists.
</blockquote>
Civil society groups and the opposition are doubtful the election will be free and fair. Several opposition activists, journalists and human rights activists have been arrested over the last year, including Job Sikhala, a Parliament member and senior official with the CCC.
Meanwhile, the ZANU-PF-dominated Parliament passed two bills aimed at restricting dissenting voices and nongovernmental organisations perceived to be anti-government. The Patriotic Bill imposes penalties on citizens for meeting foreigners to discuss sanctions or foreign intervention in Zimbabwe. Government corruption remains a problem in Zimbabwe, with the country ranking 157 out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index.
The current sanctions are holdovers from the reign of Mugabe, who came to power in 1980. In 2003, after a disputed presidential election in Zimbabwe, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions against Zimbabwean “individuals and entities in connection with undermining democracy, human rights abuses and public corruption” during and after the land reform programme. The U.S. argues that Zimbabwe’s economy collapsed due to poor governance, corruption and economic mismanagement, not sanctions. While some argue the sanctions are helping to keep officials in check, reducing human rights violations and corruption, others are concerned Mnangagwa has used them as a convenient scapegoat for the country’s persistent economic woes.
While the removal of former President Robert Mugabe was one of the outcomes of <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Operation Restore Legacy</a>, it was not the stated objective of the operation. The operation was primarily aimed at addressing issues such as political and <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">economic instability</a>, corruption, and factionalism within the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">ruling party</a>, ZANU-PF, in order to restore the ethos and values of the liberation struggle. The military and its supporters viewed Mugabe and some of his close associates as hindrances to this goal and believed that their removal from power was necessary to achieve it.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Govt Critics Say Zimbabwe's Post-Mugabe Hopes Unfulfilled After His Ouster In 2017

The United States of America says it will not participate in any financing options for Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance and debt restructuring process through the African Development Bank (AfDB) or otherwise as long as the sanctions it imposed on the country are still in place.
The US imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe under the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA).
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<li class="text-4xl border-b-2 border-[#e8e9ea] tracking-tight pb-4 font-bold pt-4"><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/05/26/zimbabwes-debt-crisis-here-are-the-lenders-and-how-much-they-are-owed/">Zimbabwe’s Debt Crisis: Here Are The Lenders And How Much They Are Owed</a></li>
</ul>
Speaking during a Roundtable meeting on Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance and debt resolution process dialogue convened on the sidelines of the AfDB annual general meetings on Wednesday in Egypt, US Assistant Secretary of Treasury, Eric Meyer said they will not support Zimbabwe as long as ZDERA is still in force. Said Meyer:
<blockquote>
I know President (Dr) Adesina mentioned ZDERA in the United States. That Act does bind us in opposing lending (to Zimbabwe) from international financial institutions and until definitely certain criteria under ZDERA are made.
I want to touch on what really some of those criteria are. They are related to the rule of law, free and fair elections, pre-elections insisting on international standards, land reform and related civilian authority over the military and the police.
I think you notice that there is a lot of commonality between the working groups and strategic dialogue that President Chissano outlined this evening and that is what my Government is bound to meet and that is what we are monitoring and looking at.
Until these conditions are met we are not able to participate in financing options for Zimbabwe through the African Development Bank or otherwise.
We are participating in this (Wednesday) strategic dialogue and we are doing this because of the importance of these reforms that extend beyond everything.
These reforms if successfully executed will create the conditions for social and economic growth in Zimbabwe.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Your Excellence President Adesina and President Chissano for your important remarks today (Wednesday) outlining the challenges in the process that has been undertaken here.
I have been thinking about speaking and I realised there is always a risk of the United States supporting this or the United States does not support this.
That is not what we are going to do. What we are going to do is welcome the opportunity to participate in this strategic dialogue.
This is a process that presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to work with its partners on reforms and measure progress along the way. That’s really important.
For Zimbabwe to reach its ultimate goal of debt resolution the discussions in the dialogue must be supported by actions as has been discussed earlier today.
It’s imperative for Zimbabwe to demonstrate credible progress in implementing governance, economic and land reforms.
Not just reaching agreements with partners but not implementing those agreements.
Building trust and progress takes time and it’s important for Zimbabwe to stay on course through that process.
</blockquote>
Akinwumi Adesina, who is the African Development Bank President, was appointed as leader of Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance and debt process by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2022.
Former Mozambique president, Joachim Chissano, was appointed the facilitator between the Zimbabwean government as a debtor, bilateral credit partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
The US enacted ZDERA in 2001 in response to Zimbabwe’s “fast-track land reform” programme.
The US put the Zimbabwean government on a credit freeze through ZDERA (specifically Section 4C titled Multilateral Financing Restriction).
ZDERA forbids US citizens who have senior positions in many multi-lateral institutions from voting for Zimbabwe’s support in areas they have influence.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

United States Declines To Support Funding Zimbabwe's Arrears Clearance, Debt Restructuring

President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday said Western-imposed sanctions are actually good for Zimbabwe as they have almost turned the country into an attraction for foreign exhibitors.
Mnangagwa made the remarks while addressing journalists soon after touring stands at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
He was being accompanied by visiting Eswatini King Mswati III who officially opened the fair. <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mnangagwa-says-western-imposed-sanctions-are-good/">Mnangagwa said</a>:
<blockquote>
People get excited by sanctions; that is why they come here to see what happens under sanctions.
In fact, you see that sanctions are very good. Numbers are increasing, increasing, and increasing.
The Americans are here, the British are here, and the European Union is here, what else would we want?
Everybody is here, so this re-engagement and engagement are bearing fruits.
You see, perhaps they (international exhibitors) heard that His Majesty (King Mswati) is coming.
That’s why they are here. In fact, if that is the reason next year he is going to come again.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has been subject to various sanctions by Western countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, for alleged human rights abuses, political instability, and economic mismanagement.
In 2001, the United States enacted the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA).
ZDERA imposed targeted sanctions on Zimbabwe, including travel bans and asset freezes on senior Government officials, and also restricts US support for international financial institutions providing assistance to Zimbabwe.
Sanctions have contributed to Zimbabwe’s economic decline by restricting access to foreign investment, credit lines, and trade partners.
Sanctions are, however, not the only factor contributing to Zimbabwe’s challenges.
Other factors, such as corruption, mismanagement, and political instability have also contributed to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic problems.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Says Sanctions "Are Good" For Zimbabwe

Eswatini monarch King Mswati III, who is on a State visit to the country, has called for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed by the West on Zimbabwe saying they are hurting the whole of Africa.
Mtswati is expected to officially open the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo this Friday.
Speaking after a meeting with President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House in Harare on Thursday, Mswati said:
<blockquote>
I have been very much impressed to see how much work has been done and we are aware that Zimbabwe is still going through some difficulties as a result of the sanctions which were imposed on this country which we hope, all of us not only the Kingdom of eSwatini but Africa as a whole is looking forward to the day these sanctions will be lifted because these sanctions are not only hurting the people of Zimbabwe but the whole of Africa.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has been subject to various sanctions by Western countries for alleged human rights abuses, political instability, and economic mismanagement.
In 2001, the United States enacted the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZDERA).
ZDERA imposed targeted sanctions on Zimbabwe, including travel bans and asset freezes on senior Government officials, and also restricts US support for international financial institutions providing assistance to Zimbabwe.
Sanctions have contributed to Zimbabwe’s economic decline by restricting access to foreign investment, credit lines, and trade partners.
Sanctions are, however, not the only factor contributing to Zimbabwe’s challenges.
Other factors, such as corruption, mismanagement, and political instability have also contributed to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic problems.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

King Mswati III Calls For Unconditional Removal Of Sanctions

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor John Mangudya has said Zimbabwe remains under economic sanctions that have hampered the movement of funds and trade in the past two decades.
On Monday Mangudya said there are no sanctions on Zimbabwean imports and exports, including on gold, and this was interpreted by some commentators as an admission by the central bank governor that the country is not under sanctions.
Speaking in an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mangudya-clears-air-on-economic-sanctions/">The Herald</a> on Tuesday, Mangudya said sanctions in the form of the Zimbabwe Democracy Recovery Act (ZDERA) remain. He said:
<blockquote>
Sanctions on Zimbabwe are through ZDERA and augmented by OFAC through placing entities on the designated list of sanctions.
What this means is that whilst these sanctions are not directly on trade per se they negatively affect the movement of funds within the international banking system.
The Zimbabwean banking sector has lost a substantial number of corresponding banking relationships over the past 20 years, through de-risking, because of the OFAC sanctions.
OFAC sanctions also affect the smooth flow of funds across borders as financial institutions are obligated to comply with OFAC sanctions.
ZDERA on the other hand is designed to put a credit freeze on official financial flows to Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
ZDERA was passed by the United States government in 2001 in response to what was described as the “fast-track land reform” in Zimbabwe.
In 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Harare said ZDERA calls for the Government of Zimbabwe to restore rule of law, hold free and fair elections, commit to equitable and transparent land reform, and subordinate military and national police to civilian government.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

I Did Not Say There Are No Sanctions On Zimbabwe - Mangudya

The European Union (EU) has extended sanctions on Zimbabwe by one year as it pushes Harare to implement democratic reforms and uphold human rights.
In <a href="https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2023/02/28/zimbabwe-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union/">a statement</a> issued on 28 February 2023, the EU said the “restrictive measures” are in the form of an “arms embargo and targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries”.
Pindula News presents the statement below:
<blockquote>
<h2>Zimbabwe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union</h2>
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition to continue developing a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe.
The EU welcomes the intention of Zimbabwe’s President to extend an invitation to the EU to deploy an Electoral Observation Mission for the 2023 Elections once constitutional processes have been finalised. 
The EU follows closely the process leading up to the elections, which are of great importance to the trajectory of the country. 
The EU encourages all electoral stakeholders, state and non-state alike, to play their role in ensuring the organisation of a credible and peaceful electoral process. 
The EU Election Observation Mission of 2018 provided a set of recommendations and encourages actors to continue improving the electoral framework to allow for credible, inclusive and transparent elections.
The EU welcomes the recent launch of the dialogue platform related to arrears clearance and debt resolution process and looks forward to tangible progress in this process. 
Furthermore, the EU welcomes Zimbabwe’s engagement on the Universal Periodic Review process, the alignment of legislation with the 2013 Constitution, the enactment of the Independent Complaints Commission Act, the new Marriages Act and the High-Level Political Compact on gender-based violence. Other developments are of concern from a democratic and civic space perspective. 
These include the Data Protection Act and, if enacted, bills such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged “patriotic provisions” in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill. 
The EU also maintains its concerns that the recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and the perpetrators of violations which occurred in August 2018 and January 2019 are to date still enjoying impunity from prosecution. 
It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In view of all the above, in its 2023 revision of the restrictive measures, the EU has decided to extend by one year the two measures in place (i.e.: the arms embargo and targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries). 
Since February 2022 there are no listed individuals. The EU will continue to closely follow developments, with a particular attention to the human rights situation and recalls its readiness to adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The remaining restrictive measures in place do not affect the people of Zimbabwe, its economy, foreign direct investments, or trade. 
Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU, while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement. 
There is significant potential in terms of investments and job opportunities, provided that the Government promote political and economic reforms, facilitate a conducive and more predictable business environment, tackle corruption and foster respect for human rights and the rule of law.
Together with EU members states the EU will continue to support Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 in particular on (i) Gender equality and women empowerment and (ii) Greener and climate smart agriculture, with over €400 million until 2025. 
The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP27. The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, when needed.
The EU looks forward to a more comprehensive and constructive article 8 political dialogue in Harare, including on international issues, and more opportunities for high-level meetings. 
A positive example was the recent mission to Harare from the EU Special Representative for Human Rights.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FULL TEXT: European Union Statement On Extension Of Sanctions On Zimbabwe

The European Union (EU) on Tuesday, 28 February 2023, extended its sanctions on Zimbabwe by a year.
The EU said it will continue to closely follow developments in the country with particular attention to the human rights situation.
<a href="https://insiderzim.com/european-union-extends-sanctions-on-zimbabwe-by-a-year/">The Insider</a> reported that EU sanctions on Zimbabwe are an arms embargo and assets freeze against the Zimbabwe Defence Industries. A statement released by the EU reads in part:
<blockquote>
The remaining restrictive measures in place do not affect the people of Zimbabwe, its economy, foreign direct investments, or trade.
Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty-free and quota-free access to its exports to the EU, while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement.
There is significant potential in terms of investments and job opportunities, provided that the government promote political and economic reforms, facilitate a conducive and more predictable business environment, tackle corruption and foster respect for human rights and the rule of law.
Together with EU member states the EU will continue to support Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 in particular on (i) Gender equality and women empowerment and (ii) Greener and climate-smart agriculture, with over €400 million until 2025.
</blockquote>
The EU expressed reservations over the Data Protection Act, the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged “patriotic provisions” in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill.
The EU also expressed concern over the Zimbabwean government’s failure to implement the recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry and bring to account the perpetrators of violations that occurred in January 2019.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

European Union Extends Sanctions On Zimbabwe

The United States of America has extended the sanctions that it imposed on Zimbabwe in 2003.
In <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/03/01/notice-on-the-continuation-of-the-national-emergency-with-respect-to-zimbabwe-3/">a statement</a> released by the White this Wednesday, 01 March 2023, U.S. President Joe Biden said the restrictive measures initially promulgated through Executive Order 13288 shall continue in effect beyond March 6, 2023. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Zimbabwe</h2>
On March 6, 2003, by Executive Order 13288, the President declared a national emergency and blocked the property of certain persons, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706), to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States constituted by the actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe and other persons to undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic processes or institutions.
These actions and policies had contributed to the deliberate breakdown in the rule of law in Zimbabwe, to politically motivated violence and intimidation in that country, and to political and economic instability in the southern African region.
On November 22, 2005, the President issued Executive Order 13391 to take additional steps with respect to the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13288 by ordering the blocking of property of additional persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe.
On July 25, 2008, the President issued Executive Order 13469, which expanded the scope of the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13288 and authorized the blocking of property of additional persons undermining democratic processes or institutions in Zimbabwe.
The actions and policies of certain members of the Government of Zimbabwe and other persons to undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic processes or institutions continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.
For this reason, the national emergency declared on March 6, 2003, and the measures adopted on that date, on November 22, 2005, and on July 25, 2008, to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond March 6, 2023.
Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13288.
This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.
</blockquote>
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

United States President Joe Biden Extends Sanctions On Zimbabwe

The ZANU PF women’s affairs provincial chairperson for Midlands Tsitsi Zhou says President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s family is the most persecuted in the country by western countries.
Zhou made the remarks following the recent sanctioning of Mnangagwa’s son Emmerson Mnangagwa Jnr.
On 12 December 2022, the United States of America Treasury Department sanctioned Emmerson Jnr for his alleged involvement with controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei and his company Sakunda Holdings.
Addressing a ZANU PF women’s league rally in Kwekwe recently, Zhou said Emmerson was being punished for working for the party. Zhou said:
<blockquote>
The President’s family is the most persecuted in the country. They (western countries) are working hard to derail his programme.
They have sanctioned Emmerson Jnr because he decided to work for ZANU PF in Midlands.
They are now punishing him because he decided to work for the party, remember he was recently co-opted in the province.
As a party, we stand by the President and His family. And we are going to vote for him.
They are the ones who have united ZANU PF and shown that he can take us to Canaan.
</blockquote>
Zhou recently said the national Constitution should be amended to remove the two-term presidential limit to allow Mnangagwa to run for a third term. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mnangagwa-family-the-most-persecuted-says-zanu-pf-womens-league-chair-after-emmerson-jnr-sanctioned/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

"Mnangagwa Family The Most Persecuted"

The newly-elected secretary-general of South Africa’s ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, has said they will intensify assisting Zimbabwe to recover from decades of economic problems.
Addressing journalists in Joburg in his briefing in his new capacity as ANC secretary-general, Mbalula said:
<blockquote>
We must be very much concerned about what is happening in Zimbabwe, and what role we need to play. We do not subscribe to the idea of regime change in Zimbabwe.
We need to campaign very hard to get things right because Zimbabweans are coming to our country in their numbers.
Something is not right in their own country (and) we must support them. Once that country becomes what it was, there will be no Zimbabwean here.
So, the British must think very hard about what they have done, and the Americans. They must uplift the sanctions so that Zimbabwe can grow.
</blockquote>
Mbalula urged the British government to honour a promise it reportedly made to Zimbabwe to compensate white farmers whose land was expropriated for redistribution to landless black about two decades ago. He said:
<blockquote>
The British know what they agreed on in Lancaster. They must come to the party, and invest in the compensation of Zimbabwe in the programme of land redistribution. 
The 40 or something billion pounds they promised Mugabe and ZANU PF, they must come to the party and not use the land reform programme of ZANU PF as a scapegoat and run away.
They must come to the party, and Zimbabwe will be a better country. Zimbabweans never (used to) come into this country, which was the bread basket of the African continent. It was an economy that was alive, people were working in Zimbabwe.
Now you have Zimbabweans crossing (into South Africa), facing life and death … coming into our country because there is no life. Life is here in South Africa and that has burdened our economy.
As the ANC we will not agree in ideological terms, that Zimbabwe must be turned into a client State, next to us. So, we need to get that right.
We need to campaign for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara, and the Cuban people.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/anc-does-not-support-idea-of-regime-change-in-zimbabwe-says-fikile-mbalula-214cac6f-3546-4071-a556-123cd94298d7">IOL</a>

Newly-elected ANC Secretary-general Speaks On Relations With ZANU PF

ZANU PF Director of Information, Tafadzwa Mugwadi has described the United States of America as a “demented superpower” after it recently imposed sanctions on four Zimbabwean nationals.
On Monday, the US Treasury Department added President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son, Emmerson Mnangagwa Jnr, Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s wife Sandra Mpunga, Nqobile Magwizi, and Obey Chimuka to the sanctions list.
Two companies controlled by Chimuka, Fossil Agro and Fossil Contracting, were also sanctioned by the U.S. for their alleged involvement with Sakunda, which is owned by Tagwirei.
Mpunga is the executive director of Sakunda and Magwizi is the chief marketing officer, according to a statement by the U.S. Treasury.
Posting on Twitter in response to the development, Mugwadi said the United States of America has gone rogue. He wrote:
<blockquote>
What the @ US Dept of State has done is an act of cowardice &amp; undoubtedly barbaric conduct that falls below the diplomatic bar.
It clearly reflects a demented superpower that has gone rogue, now aiming at non-assuming global citizens like Emmerson Jnr, a Chimuka &amp; an unknown housewife.
Anyway, needless to remind them that President Mnangagwa has reminded us that with or without sanctions, nyika inovaka navene vayo (a country is built by its owners).
</blockquote>
The designation of the four Zimbabweans and two Zimbabwean companies was announced one day before U.S. President Joe Biden hosted nearly 50 Heads of State from the African continent for the US-Africa Leaders summit.

ZANU PF Official Says United States A "Demented Superpower" After Mnangagwa's Son Is Sanctioned

Economic commentators have reacted following the addition of four Zimbabwean nationals and two Zimbabwean companies to the United States sanctions list.
The four individuals are <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa_Junior">Emmerson Mnangagwa, Jr</a>., Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s wife, Sandra Mpunga, Nqobile Magwizi, and Obey Chimuka, along with the two companies, Fossil Agro and Fossil Contracting. 
In a statement, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control said it designated the four individuals and two companies for corruption and human rights abuses.
Speaking to VOA News, Gift Mugano, an economics professor at the Durban University of Technology, said the sanctions are making it difficult for Zimbabwe to attract investors and get capital for essential projects such as power plants.
He, however, said corruption and wrong priorities are also negatively impacting the country’s economy. Mugano said:
<blockquote>
When you are under sanctions, you must be more careful and prudent when using your resources.
The case in point is the 35 million US dollars which is being given to members of parliament and ministers, the package which they have been given.
But we do not have basics in the hospitals. Thirty-five million dollars for Zimbabwe can be a game changer.
</blockquote>
Gibson Nyikadzino, an independent analyst, told VOA News that the U.S. sanctions are hurting Zimbabwe’s economy. Said Nyikadzino:
<blockquote>
Because there is a failure to access foreign capital, and capital markets, there is a failure even to import critical equipment.
So, the whole idea of sanctions is to ensure that the economy of Zimbabwe screams and that is the first essence of why the West imposed sanctions, and even to today, the economy is being hurt.
</blockquote>
However, the United States, Britain and European Union officials have long rejected claims by Zimbabwe that sanctions are making Zimbabweans suffer.
The architects of the sanctions insist that sanctions target individuals and certain companies rather than state institutions.
Piers Pigou, a senior consultant for southern African human rights watchdog, International Crisis Group, said:
<blockquote>
There is no doubt that the sanctions have an impact on aspects of the economy. In some instances directly as it relates to individual entities and individuals that are on the list.
What is difficult is to calculate the extent of that impact. Particularly in a context where there are multiple other factors relating to delinquencies and governance.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.voanews.com/a/zimbabwe-reacts-after-us-adds-president-s-son-to-sanctions-list-/6874565.html">VOA News</a>

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