Reflections from my visit to Zimbabwe

Reflecting on my recent travels in Zimbabwe, I’m struck by the contrasts and complexities that define this beautiful country.

I was extremely fortunate to spend almost two weeks meeting with everyone from farmers to journalists, to Government Ministers, building up a picture of the challenges, opportunities, and daily realities of life for Zimbabweans.

Sky high inflation, frequent power cuts, lack of access to nutritious food, education and healthcare, add to the daily struggles.

There is 92% unemployment, despite a hunger for education and a willingness to work - there aren’t jobs. Zimbabwe has become a nation of vendors and not out of choice.

The legacy of former President Mugabe’s land reform agenda still looms large, disrupting the nation’s once-thriving agricultural sector. Yet, hearing the stories of farmers who lived through these difficult times, I’m astounded by their resilience and determination to rebuild and revive the land.

There is a huge focus by the Government on addressing gender inequality and economically empowering women, in the knowledge that it will transform the country overnight. 73% of small scale farmers are elderly women and there are inspiring organisations such as Foundations for Farming, who are actively equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to improve their productivity and build on national food security efforts.

Zimbabwean farmers feel the impact of wildfires, droughts and flooding first hand and there is a willingness to do more to mitigate climate pressures, but it has to make economic sense, because there are many other barriers to address.

In the UK, we can prioritise the adoption of climate friendly practices and talk readily about carbon footprints, when we don’t have to think about lifting families out of extreme poverty, safeguarding our businesses to cope with daily currency devaluations, navigating policy changes which can hit overnight or having to dedicate budget spend to providing access to schools, medical care and security.

However, despite the challenges, everywhere I visited I was struck by the beauty of the landscapes, the integration of wildlife and nature, the entrepreneurial spirit and determination of individuals to transform agricultural food systems, the desire for peace, despite the currency of corruption and the overwhelming sense of community and commitment to the land.

Zimbabweans are among the kindest and most peaceful people I’ve encountered, despite a difficult and violent history of conflict, which is still raw for many. Their pride in their nation and their ability to endure is awe-inspiring.

In the short time I spent here, I came to understand why, despite some of the hardships I have shared, people have such pride in their county and feel so hopeful for the future. This country, with its diverse landscapes and resilient communities, has left an indelible mark on my heart.