President Emmerson Mnangagwa moved to curb factionalism in Zanu-PF by declaring himself the sole authority allowed to hand over vehicle donations, effectively ending a wave of luxury car gifts linked to succession jockeying. The directive, endorsed during recent top-party meetings, follows concerns that wealthy businessmen and senior officials were using donations to buy influence and build parallel power bases. Party leaders say centralising donations restores a single centre of authority.

Zanu-PF launched a campaign for the Nkulumane by-election, unveiling large quantities of food aid, seed packs, boreholes, transformers, digital equipment, and revolving funds at a high-profile rally in Bulawayo. Senior leaders linked development benefits directly to electing the party’s candidate, Freedom Murechu, underscoring a strategy rooted in patronage and resource distribution. With promises of infrastructure upgrades, the ruling party aims to tilt a traditionally opposition-leaning constituency ahead of the December 20 vote.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa dismissed Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando and appointed his deputy, Polite Kambamura, as the new minister. The announcement, issued by Chief Secretary Martin Rushwaya, cited constitutional authority without providing reasons for the change. Kambamura, a mining engineer and MP for Sanyati, assumes the role amid ongoing reforms in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, a key component of the national economic strategy.

Sweden will phase out bilateral aid to Zimbabwe and Mozambique by August 2026 due to changing foreign policy priorities and European security concerns. The government will close its Zimbabwe embassy, which focused on development projects since 1980. Officials said the decision does not reflect local events. Sweden will continue ties through trade, investment, and multilateral channels, while maintaining humanitarian assistance despite ending bilateral programs.

The UN in Zimbabwe has committed to strengthening partnerships with the government, civil society, and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) to advance disability rights and inclusive development. Commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the UN emphasized integrating disability perspectives into all programs, addressing barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and social protection, and ensuring meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in national development in line with the SDGs and international conventions.

Paul Tungwarara, presidential adviser to Emmerson Mnangagwa, was co-opted into Zanu-PF’s Central Committee in Manicaland. He replaced Dorothy Mabika, who became provincial Women’s League chairperson. His nomination, backed by the Youth League, Women’s League, and war veterans, was approved at a packed Provincial Coordinating Committee meeting. Tungwarara promised to support party programs and empowerment initiatives. His installation comes amid reports of donations to party structures and youth lobbying in his favor.