The US Congress formally began the process to repeal ZDERA, the sanctions law restricting Zimbabwe’s access to international lending since 2001. The repeal clause, introduced by Representative Brian Mast, has cleared the committee and now heads to full House debate. Analysts say the shift signals a major diplomatic opening, though proposed conditions, especially compensation for white former farmers, remain contentious as the Bill advances toward Senate and presidential review.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa promoted Emmanuel Matatu to lead the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. He additionally elevated Asher Tapfumaneyi to head the army, following the retirement of Valerio Sibanda. Analysts say the reshuffle strengthens Mnangagwa’s bid to influence succession and extend power beyond 2028, while sidelining rivals such as Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga. Sibanda is expected to enter politics, reinforcing the military’s entrenched role in Zanu-PF power dynamics.

Zimbabwe intensified efforts to modernize its national data systems as ZimStat, the UN, and government partners reviewed the 2025 program and set priorities for 2026. Officials emphasized stronger collaboration and upgraded statistical infrastructure to support NDS2 planning, governance reforms, and evidence-based policymaking. With backing from UNFPA and participation in global governance-data initiatives, Zimbabwe aims to expand harmonized, decentralized, and inclusive data frameworks to guide national development.

Energy Minister July Moyo, visiting Belarus, praised its advanced energy manufacturing capacity and said Zimbabwe will deepen cooperation to upgrade its power sector. He highlighted Belarus’ full energy value chain, from generation to retail, and urged local adoption of its standards. Zimbabwe plans technical exchanges, including sending ZESA Enterprises experts for training, as it accelerates its National Energy Compact.

President Mnangagwa pledged greater domestic funding for Zimbabwe’s health sector to protect progress in the HIV response, marking World AIDS Day. Zimbabwe has surpassed the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with 97% knowing their status and strong viral suppression rates. Despite funding gaps and persistent stigma, the government plans increased investment, expanded prevention, including injectable PrEP in 2026, and broader health system reforms to sustain epidemic control.

Zimbabwean churches faced scrutiny over whether they were speaking strongly enough on national issues, including Vision 2030 and potential constitutional changes. Some leaders said the church had gone silent due to weak leadership, while others stated it continued to engage in government policy. Zanu-PF figures urged religious leaders to support extending President Mnangagwa’s tenure and to back national development goals, deepening the political debate over the church’s role.