Harare
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom has been working in Zimbabwe since 1980. It has witnessed firsthand the dramatic changes that took place in Zimbabwe from the very beginning and supported the work of civil society organisations in times of crisis.
The work of the Foundation focuses on re-establishing the rule of law, liberal democracy and a free market economy, which have been virtually destroyed by the repressive regime currently in power.
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom in Harare advocates the protection of the remaining democratic and constitutional liberties with the aim of expanding these once political change has taken place.
News
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Anatomy of shrinking democratic space
Human rights violations in Zimbabwe have been going on for decades, with press freedom among the many casualties. The state continues to wield its apparatus to suppress the media. Heart and Soul TV (HSTV) broadcast editor Blessed Mhlanga’s pre-trial incarceration is quite chilling. It is not only a blatant violation of his fundamental rights, but also a disturbing reflection of the shrinking democractic space in Zimbabwe. Remember the words of Walter Cronkite, an American broadcast journalist, who said: “The freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.” From Cronkite’s assertion, it is critical to note that the press is key in nurturing democracy.
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Working with Mhlanga and struggle for press freedom
The arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga is a chilling reminder of the fragility of press freedom in Zimbabwe. As I read the distressing news, my mind wandered back to the time I worked alongside him at HStv — a space that embodied journalistic integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to telling the truth. At HStv, Mhlanga is more than just a colleague, he is a force of nature. He possesses an unmatched zeal for uncovering the truth, often at great personal risk.
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To the gallows no more
On the last day of 2024, Zimbabwe joined the ranks of nations that have consigned capital punishment to history. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, himself once a death row inmate for blowing up a train during Zimbabwe’s (then Rhodesia) fight for independence, signed the Death Penalty Abolition Act into law. For Zimbabwe and its patchy human rights track record this marks an important step. The act not only prohibits courts from imposing death sentences. It also mandates the resentencing of about 60 persons currently on death row.
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Exclusion by inclusion: Zimbabwe’s quota system under scrutiny
By reserving 60 parliamentary seats for women through proportional representation, Zimbabwe’s constitutional quota system aimed to rectify gender disparities in political participation. Over a decade later, however, questions linger about its effectiveness. Critics argue the framework inadvertently perpetuates exclusion, with political parties sidelining women from key constituency races, and societal attitudes reinforcing entrenched barriers.
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Women call for greater support in politics amid ongoing challenges
Zimbabwean women's participation in politics remains low, despite comprising 52% of the population—making them the largest demographic group. To address this, FNF Zimbabwe hosted a meeting for young and veteran women taking center stage in politics. The event, themed “History of Women’s Political Participation in Zimbabwe: A Reflection and Celebration,” provided a platform to discuss historical and current challenges in the political arena.
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Unseen but present: Plight of intersex people
Kudakwashe Maiswa, born Yvonne, faces constant scrutiny when traveling due to a mismatch between their intersex identity and official documents, which still identify them as female. Intersex individuals, like Maiswa, experience legal and social challenges in Zimbabwe, where the legal system only recognises male or female identities. This lack of recognition, coupled with societal stigma, impacts their ability to access basic rights and identity documents. Despite their struggles, Maiswa advocates for greater awareness and policy reforms to ensure intersex people are legally recognised and respected.
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Sino-Africa must be equal partners
CHINA’S geopolitical ambitions and economic influence make it a major player in global politics and economics. With a staggering GDP of US$18,5 trillion, a population of 1,4 billion, and foreign exchange reserves around US$4 trillion, China’s interactions with other nations carry immense weight. This is particularly true for Africa, and the recent 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac) held in Beijing between September 4 and 6 provided a key opportunity to assess the evolving Sino-Africa relationship.
Social Media
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ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula to unpack the ANC’s shift in power and its evolving role in South Africa’s political landscape! With the party losing its parliamentary majority, forming the Government of National Unity, and entering a coalition with the DA ahead of the 2026 local elections, this is a pivotal moment in South African politics. Get your complementary ticket NOW! https://bit.ly/4bo5zS8 Can't join us in person? Sign up to watch the event LIVE: https://tally.so/r/wQOQDp #FNFreedomDialogue
