This article discusses the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, the severe depreciation of Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency, massive job losses caused by U.S. funding cuts, a crackdown on cross-border smuggling, and the rise in human-crocodile conflicts in Zimbabwe. The situation reflects numerous socio-economic and environmental challenges affecting the country.
A journalist in Zimbabwe, Blessed Mhlanga, remains in custody following a court hearing on March 12, where his case was adjourned. Mhlanga has been detained since February 24, accused of incitement linked to interviews with a politician critical of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. His attorney, Chris Mhike, requested bail but the presiding judge, Justice Gibson Mandaza, required additional time to review the case, deeming it inappropriate to comment further during ongoing proceedings.
In a recent analysis, economist Steve Hanke has labeled Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency as the second worst globally, surpassed only by Venezuela’s Bolivar. Over the past ten months, the ZiG has depreciated by 50% against the US dollar, attributed to rampant inflation and diminished public trust. Currently, the ZiG trades on the black market at rates between ZiG33 and ZiG40, deviating significantly from the official currency rate of US$1: ZiG26, despite assertions from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe regarding the currency’s viability.
The termination of U.S. funding under the Trump administration has resulted in substantial job losses for thousands of Zimbabwean workers involved with NGOs and civil society. The funding cuts accounted for an 83% reduction in the global USAID budget, halting approximately 5,200 projects. In Zimbabwe, $388 million in USAID-supported initiatives have seen abrupt cessation, excluding any indirect aid from organizations such as the World Food Programme.
Zimbabwean authorities are intensifying efforts against truck drivers who are pressured by smugglers to transport illicit goods into the country. Mike Fitzmaurice of the Transit Assistance Bureau reported that drivers are often bribed at borders like Beitbridge while contraband is smuggled across the river. While buses were previously the means of smuggling, authorities have since strengthened enforcement measures to curtail these illegal activities.
In a concerning development, Zimbabwe has experienced 49 incidents of human-crocodile conflict in two months, resulting in nine fatalities and eleven injuries, as reported by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). Additionally, there were significant livestock losses, including 44 cattle and 60 goats. ZimParks urges local communities to exercise caution near water bodies, particularly during the rainy season.
The situation in Zimbabwe highlights significant challenges, including the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga amid political tensions, the substantial depreciation of the ZiG currency, and severe job losses caused by drastic cuts in U.S. aid. The crackdown on cross-border smuggling emphasizes the necessity for enhanced regulatory measures, while rising human-crocodile conflicts underscore the pressing need for community awareness and safety near aquatic environments. These issues call for urgent attention from both national authorities and international stakeholders.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
