Zimbabwe at 46 – Between Promise and Reality

Zimbabwe is marking 46 years of independence (1980–2026)—a journey that began on 18 April 1980, when the country attained majority rule and stepped into a future defined by self-determination and the promise of shared prosperity.

But as the country commemorates this anniversary under the so-called Second Republic led by Emmerson Mnangagwa, the question lingers: what exactly are Zimbabweans celebrating today?

The First Republic, under Robert Mugabe, delivered undeniable gains in education and…