The European Union has lifted sanctions on the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI), the last entity remaining under restrictive measures that have been in place since 2002.
However, the EU has decided to maintain an embargo on arms sales to Zimbabwe that could potentially be used for internal repression.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Council of the European Union on Wednesday. The council said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The council today renewed its framework for restrictive measures in view of the situation in Zimbabwe for a further year, until February 20, 2026.
The council also delisted the last remaining entity, the Zimbabwe Defence Industries.
The embargo on arms and equipment which might be used for internal repression remains in place.
The EU continues to closely follow developments in Zimbabwe, with particular attention to the human rights situation and recalls its readiness to adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
</blockquote>
The EU said that its remaining sanctions do not affect Zimbabwe’s people, economy, or trade.
The measures were imposed in 2002 over electoral fraud and human rights abuses. The EU has gradually eased these measures to promote political reform.
In 2015, the EU provided $267 million in aid to Zimbabwe, marking the first direct financial support since the sanctions.
The bloc also removed several government officials and security chiefs from its sanctions list.

Pindula News

The EU has removed sanctions on Zimbabwe Defence Industries, but still won't sell them weapons. They will keep watching Zimbabwe's human rights. The sanctions began in 2002 for election fraud and abuses. The EU has helped Zimbabwe with $267 million in 2015 and removed some officials from the sanctions list. The sanctions didn't hurt Zimbabwe's people, money or trade.

EU Lifts Sanctions On Zimbabwe Defence Industries, But Maintains Arms Embargo

Gabriel Chaibva, a former legislator for the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), has apologised for his role in lobbying for the imposition of sanctions on Zimbabwe which he describes as satanic and illegal. 
The Western Community – the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union and their allies, imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe at the turn of the millennium citing gross human rights violations during the fast track land reform programme sanctioned by Robert Mugabe’s admistration. 
The opposition MDC that was still in its infant stages reportedly played a part in the imposition of the restrictive measures that left Zimbabwe isolated from the international community. 
Chaibva, who has since defected to the ruling ZANU PF, says he now regrets playing a part. In a statement, seen by Pindula News, chaibva said sanctions must fall. He said:
<blockquote>
Dear Zimbabweans,
l am sorry for playing a part in lobbying for satanic illegal economic sanctions.This gave us millions at the expense of millions of ordinary Zimbabweans whose livelihoods continue to deteriorate. The damage caused in 2 decades is immeasurable 
#SANCTIONSMUSTFALL.
</blockquote>
His remarks echo sentiments by the ruling party, his new home, and the United Nations that sanctions have an adverse impact on the citizenry.
The West, however, deny the allegations that sanctions are responsible for the collapse of the Zimbabwean economy reckoning it is rather poor governance by the ruling party.
They say grand corruption and poor policies have contributed much to the demise of a once vibrant economy. 
They say a return to good governance and upholding of the rule of law is the only condition for the removal of sanctions. 
Pro-State analysts say the sanctions have less to do with human rights abuses but Western interests. They say there have been gross human rights abuses in the southern African country, especially in the 1980s, when when an estimated 20 000 people were massacred during gukurahundi in Matabeleland and Midlands but there was no rebuke from the West. 
<h2>More: Pindula News</h2>

Gabriel Chaibva Apologises For "Lobbying For Satanic Illegal Economic Sanctions"

Opposition parties in the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/POLAD_(Political_Actors_Dialogue)">Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD)</a>, have called upon the European Union (EU) to remove sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe two decades ago.
They say the Southern African country has made tremendous progress in implementing economic and political reforms, as was being demanded by the EU.
In a statement, POLAD, a dialogue platform created by President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> in May 2029 following calls for the need for dialogue with the opposition to find solutions for the country’s problems, said the EU) should pursue multilateralism and desist from prescriptive diplomacy which borders on interference. 
This comes after the EU which this week removed the last remaining Zimbabwean citizens from its sanctions.
POLAD’s International Relations and Re-engagement Committee (IRRC) said while it is encouraged by the latest decision taken by the EU, which removed Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander Philip Valerio Sibanda and former First Lady Grace Mugabe from the sanctions list, there is need for the 27-member bloc to go a step further and remove any form of an embargo on Zimbabwe.
<blockquote>
POLAD IRRC encourages the EU to desist from what seemingly is clear interference in Zimbabwe’s democratic and governance space by prescribing to the Government how to administer not only its laws but, the governance architecture.
Zimbabwe continues to make positive strides to engage with the West and the West has reciprocated the gesture by welcoming Zimbabwe back as part of the international community.
This is evidenced by the recent international invitations extended to Zimbabwe namely, Cop-26 in Scotland and the EU-Africa Summit held in Brussels.
POLAD IRRC remains concerned by the unwillingness of the EU to review the illegal restrictive measures on the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Industries (ZDI). Polad IRRC reiterates that, these illegal restrictive measures are not targeted, but have for the last 20 years, demonstrated that they have far-reaching negative impact on ordinary Zimbabweans.
</blockquote>
POLAD also said it acknowledges that the implementation of democratic reforms is a work in progress adding that any assistance that the EU may extend to assist Zimbabwe in its quest to realise its international human rights obligations is welcome. 
The West imposed <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Democracy_and_Economic_Recovery_Act_Of_2001">sanctions on Zimbabwe</a> at the turn of the millennium in response to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Third_Chimurenga">land reform programme</a> that was marred by reports of human rights abuses. 
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/opposition-urges-eu-to-remove-all-sanctions/">The Herald</a>

Zimbabwe: Opposition Parties In POLAD Call Upon EU To Remove Sanctions

The EU has decided to renew its restrictive measures while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries, remain in place. Pindula News presents a statement issued by General Secretariat of the Council of the European Union:
<blockquote>
<h2>Zimbabwe: Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union</h2>
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition for a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe at all levels.
The EU has reviewed its restrictive measures in respect of Zimbabwe and in this context recalls the Council Conclusions of 17 February 2020 as %/tell as the Declaration by the Ugh Representative on behalf of the EU of 19 February 2021.
Since then, the situation in term of respect for human rights has not improved in Zimbabwe. Intimidation of the political opposition and other government critics has continued to restrict the democratic and civic space. which is under threat of shrinking further. through the Data Protection Act and ongoing legislative processes such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged so-called Patriotic Act”. The EU is concerned about these developments Perpetrators of human rights violations should be swiftly brought to justice to end impunity. The recommendations of the Motlanthe Corrrnission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and need to be implemented as a matter of priority and urgency. It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In this light, the EU recalls the purpose of its restrictive measures. which is to encourage a demonstrable, genuine, and long-term commitment by the Zimbabwean authorities to respect and uphold human rights and the rule of law. The EU has decided to renew its restrictive measures, while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries, remain in place taking into account the situation in Zimbabwe, as well as the continuing need to investigate the role of security forces in human rights abuses The EU wil continue to closely follow developments. with a particular attention to the human rights situation. and recalls its readiness to review and adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The measures in place are targeted and very limited, therefore they do not affect the people of Zimbabwe. its economy. foreign direct investments. or trade. Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU. while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement. There is significant potential in terms of investments and jobs opportunities, if structural bottlenecks vere to be addressed. and political and economic reforms including enhancing trust in the rule of law, tackling corruption and respect for human rights, are implemented. 
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms. based on tangible commitments made by the Government of Zimbabwe. The EU will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe focusing on three priority areas as aligned with the Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy: (i) good governance and citizens’ rights: (ii) green economic growth and (iii) social recovery and human development. The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP26. The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, in case of need.
The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recommendations of the 2018 EU Ejection Observation Mission. The EU is preparing for a follow-up mission. Moreover. the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they will be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.
As an integral element of its engagement truth Gmbahwe, the EU looks forward to have a political dialogue in Harare as a matter of priority and notes the readiness of both sides to organize this dialogue in the near future. The political dialogue wall provide an opportunity for regular and open discussions. on many sublects, including on economy and human rights. The political dialogue is key in fostering mutual understanding and constructive cooperation. paving the vuay for progress in the relations.
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

EU Renews Sanctions On Zimbabwe Defence Industries

The United Nations (UN) will deploy an envoy to Zimbabwe to assess the impact of sanctions imposed on the Southern African country at the turn of the millennium.
The special rapporteur, Alena Douhan from Belarus, is expected to be in Zimbabwe from October 18 to 28, at the invitation of the government.
She is scheduled to meet government officials, the opposition and members of civic society and subsequently present a report on findings to the UN Human Rights Council at its 51st session to be held in September next year. Read a statement by the office of the UN Human Rights High Commissioner Tuesday:
<blockquote>
She is currently seeking the views of all relevant stakeholders to inform the thematic and geographical focus of the visit and subsequent reporting.
In order to gather first-hand information related to the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights in a specific country, enabling her to conduct her assessment and evaluation of such impacts, and thus to prepare relevant recommendations and guidelines on means to mitigate or eliminate these adverse impacts, the special rapporteur undertakes field visits.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has been under US sanctions since 2001 when the U.S. signed the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act into law in citing violation of human rights in the country.
The sanctions have been renewed over the years since 2001 and in March 2021.
The European Union (EU) and the UK, also imposed sanctions, which they described as targeted.
The late former President Robert Mugabe claimed sanctions were meant to champion a regime change agenda by hurting the ordinary people.
But local opposition parties and observers argued that the economic crisis in Zimbabwe was caused by grand corruption and not sanctions.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/un-probes-zim-sanctions/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

UN Sends Envoy To Assess The Impact Of Sanctions On Zimbabwe

Independent Norton legislator, Temba Mliswa, says white-owned companies in Zimbabwe are looting the country’s natural resources much more than those owned by indigenous people. In a Twitter thread Tuesday, Mliswa said the looting is taking place, surprisingly, with the government’s blessing. He claimed the white-owned companies are given preference in the granting of treasury bills, singling out Bindura-based fertilizer manufacturing company, FSG. Pindula News presents the thread.
<blockquote>How was corrupt, dishonest Mike Nunn, who had his platinum license cancelled by ZMDC due to corruption, be awarded USD60 million? Govt must appeal. They’ve the right to take it away. Why should they pay him? He’s corrupt.
Mike Nunn’s notorious reputation precedes him. A corrupt, white, South African who’s infamous even amongst the local white community. Govt you need to protect our interests, please. Especially now that the British are slapping our own indigenous people with sanctions on the back of rumours and yet these whites are still being enriched at our expense. Even on the farms, I really don’t understand this. I think a motion needs to be moved in Parliament to expose all these white companies benefitting from this Govt and ZANU PF.
Let’s see if they’ll be put on sanctions. Who says they don’t help ZANU-PF?
Many of these white companies were given Treasury Bills by Govt. FSG, the fertiliser company has been given more money to supply inputs for the Presidential Inputs Scheme and has a 5-year contract to this effect and given TBs. Why aren’t they on the sanctions list?
There are many other white companies that have entered into such deals. Univern, Innscor the lot are engaging in questionable business practices, some of which are suspected to be pushing up the forex rates etc and yet they are not put on sanctions, why?
They all wine and dine with and sponsor ZANU-PF and yet are allowed to continue without the fear of being slapped with sanctions. Those imposing sanctions should wait for the Public Accounts Committee’s report to be released which will highlight a lot.
The selective application of imposing sanctions is how the element of racism &amp; discrimination is suspected as evidence is available to question the motives. It’s not about targeting 1 person, if sanctions are to be applied, let the policy be consistent &amp; applied across the board
These white companies are in partnerships with ZANU-PF and support and sponsor them, why are they being left out? The Auditor General’s report is very clear in exposing this.
During the time when Biti Chaired the Public Accounts Committee, it was revealed that Univern were tainted. Tendai Biti you know this and have onus to assist in advising the Americans and British the truth, if they’re unaware.
These are findings you Tendai Biti presided over and have full knowledge of the extent of the corruption in these white-owned companies. What’s the basis of being placed on sanctions? It shouldn’t be on rumourmongering or hearsay.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Sanctions Latest News

Latest Jobs