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An Introduction to Zimbabwe
The UK annexed Southern Rhodesia from the South Africa Company in 1923. A 1961 constitution was formulated that favored whites in power. In 1965 the government unilaterally declared its independence, but the UK did not recognize the act and demanded more complete voting rights for the black African majority in the country (then called Rhodesia). UN sanctions and a guerrilla uprising finally led to free elections in 1979 and independence (as Zimbabwe) in 1980. Robert MUGABE, the nation's first prime minister, has been the country's only ruler (as president since 1987) and has dominated the country's political system since independence. His chaotic land redistribution campaign begun in 2000 caused an exodus of white farmers, crippled the economy, and ushered in widespread shortages of basic commodities. Ignoring international condemnation, MUGABE rigged the 2002 presidential election to ensure his reelection. Opposition and labor groups launched general strikes in 2003 to pressure MUGABE to retire early; security forces continued their brutal repression of regime opponents.
Map of Zimbabwe ( Location ) : 20 00 S, 30 00 E, Southern Africa, between South Africa and Zambia.
For additional reports and educational information specific to Zimbabwe, refer to the Country Info menubar to the upper right.
The Zimbabwean Flag
Seven equal horizontal bands of green, yellow, red, black, red, yellow, and green with a white isosceles triangle edged in black with its base on the hoist side; a yellow Zimbabwe bird representing the long history of the country is superimposed on a red five-pointed star in the center of the triangle, which symbolizes peace; green symbolizes agriculture, yellow - mineral wealth, red - blood shed to achieve independence, and black stands for the native people.
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Rankings of The Most Populous Countries in the World.
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Some interesting facts and figures about Zimbabwe.
Pop Growth Rate / Year:
• 0.68%
Avg. Life Expectancy:
• 38.63 yrs - Male
• 36.99 yrs - Female
Phone Lines:
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300,900 (2003)
Televisions:
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370,000 (1997)
Radios:
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1,140,000 (1997)
Internet Code:
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.zw
Did you know ... People from Zimbabwe are called Zimbabweans
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