ZIMBABWE RISK REPORT

Threat level: Low-Medium
Robert Mugabe has now been ousted as President of Zimbabwe after finally agreeing to step down on Tuesday the 21st of November. Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa has been sworn in to replace Mr Mugabe as President and elections will be planned in the near future. Due to the current political situation in Harare, it is recommended to not get involved in large gatherings of crowds due to possible civil unrest.

The current travel advice for Zimbabwe is to stay cautious. There is a low threat of terror in the country however there is a moderate threat globally that western travellers are particularly at risk of. It is advised to take basic security precautions when in the country to ensure a risk free trip, as foreign tourists are often targeted by petty criminals.

Recent security risk events
Zimbabwe has experienced some political unrest in the past. This has included some large demonstrations that have turned violent on occasion, these are isolated incidents and do not represent an immediate risk. Precautions you should take are to avoid large public gatherings when possible, and monitor the local media as often as possible.

It is a criminal offence to make derogatory or insulting comments about the President of Zimbabwe or to carry material considered to be offensive to the government office.

Security risks
There is a moderate level of petty crime in the Harare region. The most common crimes include pick pocketing, jewellery theft and assaults. Street lighting can be poor so remain extra vigilant after dark and avoid travelling alone if possible.

There has been a recent increase in thefts and smash-and-grab robberies from vehicles, including at the main intersections along the route to Harare International Airport and on the Masvingo Beitbridge road.

International Relations
Zimbabwe’s closest diplomatic relations lie with the People Republic of China and South Africa. The country also has strong ties with Russia as the two countries have economic interests with one another. Relationships between Zimbabwe and the UK have been shaky in recent years but they do still have embassies in each others countries.

Travel considerations
You can drive in Zimbabwe with most national driving licences including EU and UK licences. The roads are notoriously bad and are often riddled with potholes. Roads have little to none lighting and are often used by pedestrians and donkey carts which can cause accidents.

The diamond mining area in Marange is a restricted area.