Zimbabwe Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Zimbabwe, state of southern East Africa; 391,000 km², 14.4 million residents (2019).Zimbabwe borders in north and northwest to Zambia, in the east and northeast to Mozambique, in the south to South Africa and in the southwest to Botswana. The capital is Harare (1.5 million residents, 2013).

Country facts

Republic of Zimbabwe / Republic of Zimbabwe
Country abbreviation: ZW
Area: 391 000 km²
Population (2019): 14.4 million residents
Capital: Harare
Main languages: shona, english
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Emmerson Mnangagwa
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 2,147
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1 790
Currency unit: no domestic currency (several international currencies are used)
Currency code: –
Country number (telephony): 263
Internet domain name: zw
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: April 18 (Independence Day, 1980)

Nature

Land use: forest (22%), agricultural land (7%), other (71%)
Highest mountain: Inyangani (2,592 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 37 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.0%; birth number 30 ‰, death number 10 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (40%), 15-64 (55%), 65- (5%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 58 years, women 61 years
Infant mortality (2019): 52 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 24 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.535 (place 156 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 32%
Most populous cities (2013): Harare (1.5 million residents), Bulawayo (653,300), Chitungwiza (356,800)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (12%), industry (22%), service (66%)
Exports (2017): US $ 4,353 million
Main export products: platinum, cotton, tobacco
Main exporting countries: South Africa, Mozambique, United Arab Emirates
Imports (2017): US $ 5,472 million
Main import products: machinery, transport equipment, industrial goods
Main importing countries: South Africa, Zambia
Railway network (2014): 3 400 km

Geography of Zimbabwe

Location

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of Africa. It is bordered by four countries: to the north by Zambia, to the east by Mozambique, to the south by South Africa, and to the west by Botswana. Despite its landlocked status, Zimbabwe enjoys a central position within the southern African region, providing it access to numerous regional transport routes and trade opportunities. The country spans an area of 390,757 square kilometers (150,872 square miles), making it the 61st largest country in the world.

Topography

The landscape of Zimbabwe is characterized by diverse features, including high plateaus, mountains, valleys, and a series of river systems. The country is primarily composed of a central plateau, which forms the backbone of its geography. The eastern highlands are the most elevated, with the highest peak, Mount Inyangani, standing at 2,592 meters (8,504 feet) above sea level. The central plateau lies between 1,200 and 1,500 meters (3,937 and 4,921 feet) above sea level and is covered with savanna woodlands and grasslands.

In contrast, the southern regions of Zimbabwe are more arid and characterized by semi-desert conditions, particularly in areas around the Kalahari Desert. Zimbabwe’s major rivers include the Zambezi River to the north, the Limpopo River to the south, and the Save River, which flows across the southeastern portion of the country. The Zambezi River is most famous for the spectacular Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest waterfalls in the world.

Natural Resources

Zimbabwe is endowed with rich natural resources that play a significant role in its economy. The country has vast mineral deposits, including gold, platinum, diamonds, coal, and chromium. It also has extensive forests, wildlife, and fertile agricultural land. The fertile soils in the central and northern regions are ideal for growing crops like maize, tobacco, cotton, and wheat.

Climate of Zimbabwe

General Climate

Zimbabwe experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by a rainy season during the summer months (November to March) and a dry season during the winter months (April to October). The climate is typically divided into three regions: the highlands, the plateau, and the lowveld.

In the highlands, the climate is more temperate, with cooler temperatures and higher rainfall. The plateau region experiences a moderate climate with seasonal variations, while the lowveld is much warmer and drier, particularly in the summer months. The lowveld areas, including the southern and western parts of Zimbabwe, can reach temperatures above 40°C (104°F) during the hottest months.

Rainfall Patterns

Zimbabwe’s rainfall patterns are uneven, with the eastern and northern regions receiving more rainfall compared to the western and southern regions. The rainfall is typically heavy during the summer months, with the possibility of storms, particularly in the highland areas. The overall annual rainfall varies between 450 mm to 1,500 mm (18 to 59 inches) depending on the region, with the highest rainfall levels being recorded in the eastern mountains.

People of Zimbabwe

Population and Ethnic Composition

Zimbabwe’s population is estimated at over 16 million people, with a density of about 40 people per square kilometer. The population is predominantly made up of indigenous African groups, with the two main ethnic groups being the Shona and Ndebele people. The Shona form the majority, comprising approximately 70% of the population, while the Ndebele people make up about 20%. Other smaller ethnic groups include the Tonga, Chewa, Venda, and Nambya. There are also people of mixed descent, as well as small communities of white Zimbabweans, Indians, and people of Chinese origin.

Language

Zimbabwe is a multilingual country, with 16 official languages. English is the official language used in government, business, and education. However, the majority of Zimbabweans speak one of the indigenous languages, with Shona and Ndebele being the most widely spoken. Other indigenous languages include Chewa, Chibarwe, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Nyungwe, and Tonga. Despite the multilingual nature of the country, English often serves as a unifying language for communication among different ethnic groups.

Religion

Zimbabwe is predominantly a Christian nation, with about 80% of the population identifying as Christian. The country has a variety of Christian denominations, including Roman Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal, and Evangelical churches. Traditional African religions, however, are still practiced by some people, particularly in rural areas. These religions typically involve belief in ancestral spirits and the veneration of nature. Other religious minorities include Muslims, Hindus, and smaller groups practicing indigenous faiths.

Economy of Zimbabwe

Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. The country’s fertile soils and favorable climate provide excellent conditions for crop cultivation. Maize is the staple food, but Zimbabwe also produces tobacco, cotton, tea, coffee, sugar, and wheat. The country is renowned for its high-quality tobacco, which is one of its most important export commodities. However, agricultural productivity has been adversely affected by economic instability, land reform policies, and droughts in recent years.

Mining

Zimbabwe is rich in mineral resources, and mining has long been a key part of the economy. The country has significant deposits of gold, platinum, diamonds, coal, and chrome. It is one of the largest producers of platinum in the world and has substantial reserves of chrome and nickel. The country’s gold industry has been a major contributor to its economy, with Zimbabwe once being one of the top gold producers in Africa. However, challenges such as economic mismanagement, lack of investment, and infrastructural issues have led to a decline in the mining sector.

Manufacturing and Industry

Manufacturing in Zimbabwe includes food processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products, and cement. However, the industrial sector has been in decline in recent years, due to high inflation, power shortages, and lack of investment. Many factories have closed, leading to high unemployment rates in urban areas. Despite these challenges, the country has significant potential to develop its manufacturing sector, particularly in areas such as agro-processing and light manufacturing.

Service Sector

The service sector, including tourism, retail, finance, and communications, has grown over the past few decades. Zimbabwe is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Victoria Falls, Great Zimbabwe Ruins, and Hwange National Park, which attract tourists from around the world. Despite the challenges faced by the economy, tourism remains an important source of foreign currency. The financial sector is also a vital part of the economy, with a variety of banks, insurance companies, and microfinance institutions.

Government of Zimbabwe

Political System

Zimbabwe is a republic with a presidential form of government. The President is both the head of state and the head of government. The country has a bicameral parliament, consisting of the Senate and the House of Assembly. The Senate has 80 members, while the House of Assembly has 270 members. The executive branch is headed by the President, who is elected through popular vote for a five-year term.

Political History

Zimbabwe gained independence from British colonial rule in 1980, following a prolonged liberation struggle led by nationalist movements. The country was initially led by Robert Mugabe, who served as Prime Minister and later as President for nearly four decades. Mugabe’s rule was marked by periods of political instability, economic decline, and human rights abuses. In 2017, Mugabe was forced to resign in a military coup, and his successor, Emmerson Mnangagwa, assumed the presidency. Despite changes in leadership, Zimbabwe continues to face significant political challenges, including corruption, limited press freedom, and opposition party repression.

Governance Challenges

Zimbabwe has struggled with issues related to governance, including corruption, lack of transparency, and an inefficient bureaucracy. The country’s land reform program, initiated in the early 2000s, led to the redistribution of land from white farmers to black Zimbabweans. While the program aimed to address historical inequalities, it resulted in the collapse of commercial agriculture and a sharp decline in food production. Economic mismanagement and hyperinflation have further compounded the challenges faced by the country.

Culture of Zimbabwe

Traditional Music and Dance

Music and dance are integral parts of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage. Traditional music is often performed using instruments such as the mbira (thumb piano), marimba (wooden percussion instrument), drums, and the hosho (rattle). The Shona people are particularly known for their mbira music, which has a spiritual significance and is often used in ceremonies and rituals. The Ndebele people, on the other hand, are known for their vibrant dances and drumming performances. The music and dances are not only forms of entertainment but also a means of preserving cultural traditions and telling stories of the community.

Art and Craft

Zimbabwean art is renowned for its stone sculptures, particularly the Shona sculptures, which are often created from local stones like serpentine, soapstone, and limestone. These sculptures are highly valued in both local and international markets. In addition to stone sculptures, Zimbabweans are skilled in basket weaving, beadwork, pottery, and wood carving. These crafts are not only functional but also serve as important symbols of cultural identity.

Cuisine

Zimbabwean cuisine reflects a blend of indigenous foods and influences from colonial times. The staple food is sadza, a dish made from maize meal, which is typically served with vegetables, meat, or fish. Other common dishes include nyama (grilled meat), muriwo (greens), and stew. Zimbabweans also enjoy a variety of traditional beverages, including mahewu (a fermented maize drink) and beer made from millet or sorghum.

Festivals and Celebrations

Zimbabweans celebrate various cultural festivals throughout the year. These festivals often include music, dance, and traditional ceremonies. The most prominent of these festivals is the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which showcases local industry and commerce. The National Arts Festival, held in Harare, celebrates Zimbabwean music, theater, and dance. Additionally, traditional celebrations such as the Mbira Festival honor the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Shona people.