Zimbabwe Roundup: Seizure of illicit goods, fire outbreak, power outage

Former Vice president dies

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko of Zimbabwe has died at the age of 84 while undergoing treatment in India for an undisclosed illness. Zim Live reports that his death was confirmed by presidential spokesperson George Charamba. Mphoko served as vice president from 2014 to 2017 and held various diplomatic positions since 1987. He was a former ZPRA commander and played a role in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. Colleagues remembered him as a selfless national hero and a compassionate leader committed to promoting peace and reconciliation in the country.

Power outage

Zimbabwe's Parliament experienced a power outage during the budget discussion, causing outrage among opposition members. According to the First Post, the Finance Minister was concluding his speech when the lights went out, highlighting ongoing issues with power shortages due to low water levels at the Kariba Dam. Citizens face limited electricity access, averaging only seven hours per day. The country is exploring alternative power sources alongside Zambia to alleviate these outages.

Trade deficit

Zimbabwe's trade deficit narrowed to US$137.7 million in October 2024, a 34.3% decrease from US$209.5 million in September. This improvement results from a 21.4% rise in exports, reaching US$698.1 million, while imports increased by 6.6% to US$835.8 million. Key exports included semi-manufactured gold (42.4%), tobacco (17.5%), and nickel mattes (12.2%), while mineral fuels (21%) were the largest import category, Bulawayo24 reports. This trend highlights Zimbabwe's efforts to enhance the visibility of local products in global markets, supported by initiatives from President Mnangagwa and ZimTrade's export promotion campaigns, which aim to diversify export portfolios and strengthen economic growth through improved external trade.

Fire outbreak

A mysterious fire destroyed 12 huts belonging to the Chimbudzi family in Mwenezi District's Chimbudzi Village, leaving them homeless and without crucial supplies during the rainy season. The fire began unexpectedly in the kitchen of Judith Chimbudzi's homestead, engulfing two huts before returning five days later to finish the last remaining structure. The Zimbabwe Mail reports that villagers feared the fire could continue and declined to offer shelter. The disaster affected multiple family members across five homesteads, resulting in the loss of clothing and school uniforms. Mike Chimbudzi described the panic and community bewilderment over the unexplained incidents, while Chief Mawarire reported that they are seeking assistance from local authorities. The family has only received minimal aid so far.

Seizure of illicit goods

A joint operation targeting smuggling and unethical business practices resulted in the impounding of numerous vehicles, including buses and trucks, along with the seizure of illicit goods like foodstuffs and second-hand clothes. Spearheaded by a Cabinet-established task force led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the crackdown aims to protect local industries and consumer welfare amidst a surge of smuggled goods affecting the economy. Multiple agencies, including the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) and law enforcement, are conducting inspections at roadblocks and retail outlets to ensure compliance with regulations, The Zimbabwe Mail has said. The initiative will intensify during the festive season when smuggling often peaks, particularly with returning expatriates bringing goods that evade customs. Officials emphasize that business malpractices, including currency manipulation and selling counterfeit goods, threaten local manufacturers and employment. The government warns that non-compliance may lead to fines and seizure of goods, stating the urgent need to restore order in the market and curb smuggling's detrimental impact on public health and local production.