If Only ED Had Been President for 37 Years, Zimbabwe Would Be More Developed

By Desmond Nleya

This article is not intended to downgrade or dismiss the achievements of the late former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Rather, it is an honest and comparative opinion based on Zimbabwe’s development trajectory over the past seven years under President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, contrasted with the 37-year tenure of his predecessor.

There is no doubt that President Mugabe left an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s history. Chief among his achievements is the Land Reform Programme, which remains one of his most defining legacies and a policy that fundamentally altered land ownership in the country. However, when one objectively examines Zimbabwe’s economic management, infrastructure development, and institutional efficiency, it becomes increasingly clear that President Mnangagwa has achieved notable progress within a relatively short period.

In just seven years, Zimbabwe has recorded milestones that had remained elusive for decades. Recently, the country achieved a single-digit monthly inflation rate for the first time in many years—an economic indicator that reflects a level of fiscal and monetary discipline. While challenges remain, this achievement points directly to the current administration’s economic management efforts.

Zimbabwe has also enjoyed relative peace and stability. Although sporadic demonstrations do occur, they are far less frequent and disruptive than in previous eras. Critics may argue that the incumbent administration employs a heavy-handed approach to dissent; however, history shows that the same, if not harsher, methods were used during the Mugabe era, when protests were more common and often met with force.

Service delivery within government institutions has also improved significantly. The Ministry of Home Affairs, in particular, has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, especially in the processing of passports. While the cost of acquiring travel documents remains a concern, it is equally important to acknowledge the speed and professionalism of the service. Not long ago, Zimbabweans waited months or even years for passports—a situation that has largely been resolved.

Similarly, law enforcement practices have changed. The era of police roadblocks at nearly every kilometre, widely associated with the tenure of former Police Commissioner Augustine Chihuri, appears to be behind us. This shift has eased the burden on motorists and improved public perception of the police.

The banking sector has also seen improvements. Access to cash through ATMs, the ability to deposit funds electronically, and the general modernization of banking services have enhanced convenience for citizens. While technological advancement plays a role, leadership and policy direction are critical in creating an environment where such progress can occur.

Politically, ZANU PF appears stronger and more cohesive, despite the presence of internal factions. Such divisions are not unusual in any democratic organization. What is noteworthy is how President Mnangagwa has managed both party and state affairs, maintaining relative stability within the ruling party while steering the country forward.

Concerns around corruption persist and cannot be ignored. They represent the darker side of the current administration. However, when weighed against the tangible improvements in governance, service delivery, and economic management, these shortcomings do not entirely overshadow the gains made so far.

This article is not an endorsement of the Vision 2030 agenda. For Zimbabwe to sustain an upward development trajectory, constitutionalism, the rule of law, and respect for democratic principles must remain non-negotiable. Recent statements suggesting that only the Bible cannot be amended are politically emotive and potentially dangerous. Laws exist to be upheld, not manipulated through opportunistic amendments.

In conclusion, when comparing seven years of President Mnangagwa’s leadership to the 37 years of President Mugabe’s rule, it is reasonable to argue that more measurable progress has been achieved in a shorter time. Had such momentum been sustained over decades, Zimbabwe might today be far more developed than it is.