Zimbabwe

World Book Index

Introduction

The Kingdom of Zimbabwe, once the largest trading state in the region, has a rich historical tapestry that dates back to the mid-15th century. The arrival of British colonization in the late 1800s marked a significant turning point, leading to the establishment of Southern Rhodesia in 1923. Following a period of intense struggle characterized by UN sanctions and a national uprising, Zimbabwe emerged as an independent nation in 1980, marking a new chapter in its storied past.

Neighboring countries

Botswana - Mozambique - South Africa - Zambia

Geography

Area
Total: 390,757 sq km
Land: 386,847 sq km
Water: 3,910 sq km

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of Africa, characterized by a diverse landscape that includes savannas, plateaus, and mountain ranges. The climate is predominantly tropical, though it is moderated by altitude, leading to distinct seasonal variations. The rainy season, which occurs from November to March, plays a crucial role in the agricultural cycle and the overall ecosystem. The country is endowed with a wealth of natural resources, including coal, chromium ore, asbestos, gold, nickel, copper, iron ore, vanadium, lithium, tin, and platinum group metals, which are vital to its economy and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 17,150,352 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
African 99.6% (predominantly Shona; Ndebele is the second largest ethnic group), other (includes Caucasian, Asiatic, mixed race) 0.4% (2022 estimated)

Languages
Shona (official, most widely spoken) 80.9%, Ndebele (official, second most widely spoken) 11.5%, English (official, traditionally used for official business) 0.3%, 13 minority languages (official; includes Chewa, Chibarwe, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Shangani, sign language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, and Xhosa) 7%, other 0.3% (2022 estimated)

Religions
Apostolic Sect 40.3%, Pentecostal 17%, Protestant 13.8%, other Christian 7.8%, Roman Catholic 6.4%, African traditionalist 5%, other 1.5% (includes Muslim, Jewish, Hindu), none 8.3% (2022 estimated)

Population growth rate
1.91% (2024 estimated)

Zimbabwe's population is predominantly composed of Africans, with the Shona ethnic group representing the majority. The Ndebele group follows as the second largest ethnic community. The linguistic landscape reflects this diversity, with Shona and Ndebele being the most widely spoken languages, while English serves as the language of official communication. The religious composition is varied, with a significant portion of the population adhering to various Christian denominations, alongside traditional beliefs. The population growth rate indicates a youthful demographic, which presents both opportunities and challenges for the country's development.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Harare

Executive branch
Chief of state: President Emmerson Dambudzo MNANGAGWA (since 4 September 2023)
Head of government: Vice President Constantino CHIWENGA (since 11 September 2023)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Sarah BHOROMA (since 12 November 2024)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Pamela M. TREMONT (since August 2024)

Zimbabwe operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. The capital city, Harare, is the political and administrative center of the country. The current leadership, under President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, reflects a continuity of governance following recent elections. Diplomatic relations, particularly with the United States, are crucial for Zimbabwe, especially in light of its economic challenges and the need for international support.

Economy

Economic overview
Zimbabwe's economy is classified as a low-income Sub-Saharan economy, grappling with the dual challenges of political instability and endemic corruption, which have hindered necessary reforms and delayed debt restructuring efforts. The introduction of the new Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency represents the latest attempt to address the persistent issue of hyperinflation that has plagued the nation. The economy remains heavily reliant on natural resource extraction, agriculture, and remittances from the diaspora, which are vital for sustaining livelihoods and economic activity.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$57.391 billion (2024 estimated)
$56.249 billion (2023 estimated)
$53.399 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$3,500 (2024 estimated)
$3,400 (2023 estimated)
$3,300 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$7.603 billion (2023 estimated)
$7.453 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.575 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
UAE 45%, China 18%, South Africa 15%, Mozambique 4%, Hong Kong 2% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Gold, tobacco, nickel, minerals, diamonds (2023)

Imports
$10.293 billion (2023 estimated)
$9.569 billion (2022 estimated)
$8.104 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
South Africa 37%, China 15%, Bahamas, The 5%, Singapore 5%, UAE 4% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, fertilizers, trucks, soybean oil, stone processing machines (2023)

The economic landscape of Zimbabwe is characterized by a complex interplay of factors that influence its growth and stability. The real GDP, projected to reach $57.391 billion in 2024, reflects a gradual recovery, albeit from a low base. The GDP per capita remains modest at $3,500, indicating significant economic challenges for the average citizen. Exports are primarily driven by gold, tobacco, and minerals, with the United Arab Emirates being the largest trading partner. Conversely, imports predominantly consist of refined petroleum and agricultural inputs, highlighting the country's reliance on external sources for essential goods. This economic structure underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to foster sustainable growth and improve living standards.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.598, ranking it 153rd out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 154th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 3.295. (more information)