I RECENTLY visited a wellness spa in Mandara, Harare, expecting a serene escape from the daily grind as we sought their services.
Instead, I was met with an experience that was anything but relaxing. The treatment was unprofessional, the staff unwelcoming, and the overall atmosphere chaotic except the exotic garden the place has.
It was a stark reminder of the broader dysfunction that seems to permeate many institutions in Zimbabwe.
This personal encounter got me thinking about the state of our nation, particularly in light of recent events such as the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga.
His case, like my spa experience, underscores a troubling trend of disorder and unaccountability that has become all too common in our society.
Zimbabwe, once hailed as the breadbasket of Africa, has seen its institutions deteriorate over the years.
From healthcare and education to the judiciary and law enforcement, the signs of decay are evident.
The arrest of Mhlanga, a journalist known for his investigative reporting, is a case in point. Mhlanga was detained under questionable circumstances, accused of inciting public violence.
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His arrest has sparked outrage among media freedom advocates, who see it as an attempt to silence dissent and intimidate journalists. This incident is not isolated; it is part of a broader pattern where those in power use state institutions to suppress opposition and maintain control.
The judiciary, in particular, has come under scrutiny. Once regarded as a pillar of justice and fairness, it is now often perceived as compromised and politicised.
The arrest and subsequent handling of Mhlanga’s case raise serious questions about the independence of the judiciary.
When the courts are seen as tools of the executive, it erodes public trust, and the rule of law is undermined.
This erosion of trust is not limited to the judiciary; it extends to other institutions as well. The police, for instance, are often accused of heavy-handedness and partisanship.
The recent crackdown on protests and the arbitrary arrest of activists have only reinforced this perception.
The chaos in our institutions is not just a matter of poor governance; it has real consequences for ordinary citizens.
Take, for example, the healthcare system. Hospitals are understaffed and underfunded, leading to a decline in the quality of care.
Patients often have to bring their own medical supplies, and strikes by healthcare workers are a regular occurrence.
The education system is similarly affected. Teachers are underpaid and demoralised, leading to frequent strikes and a decline in educational standards.
The result is a generation of young people who are ill-equipped to compete in the global economy.
The economic implications of this institutional decay are profound. Investors, both local and foreign, are reluctant to put their money into a country where the rule of law is weak and institutions are unreliable.
This lack of investment stifles economic growth and exacerbates unemployment and poverty. The informal sector has become the lifeline for many Zimbabweans, but it is not a sustainable solution.
Without strong institutions, the economy cannot recover, and the cycle of poverty will continue. The root causes of this institutional decay are complex and multi-faceted. Corruption is a major factor. It permeates every level of society, from the highest echelons of government to the lowest ranks of the civil service.
The lack of accountability and transparency allows corruption to flourish, and those in power often use state resources for personal gain. This culture of impunity undermines public trust and perpetuates the cycle of dysfunction.
Another contributing factor is the lack of political will to reform. Successive governments have paid lip service to the need for institutional reform, but little has been done in practice.
The ruling party, Zanu PF, has been in power for decades, and its grip on the state apparatus remains strong.
Opposition parties, while vocal, have been unable to effect meaningful change. The result is a political system that is resistant to reform and a population that is increasingly disillusioned. The media, as exemplified by Blessed Mhlanga’s case, plays a crucial role in holding those in power accountable.
However, journalists in Zimbabwe operate in a hostile environment. The government has used various tactics to suppress press freedom, including restrictive laws, intimidation, and violence.
The arrest of Mhlanga is just the latest in a long line of attacks on the media. Without a free and independent press, the public is left in the dark, and those in power are able to act with impunity.
Civil society organisations have also been targeted. Activists and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that advocate for human rights and good governance are often harassed and subjected to arbitrary arrests.
The government views these organisations as a threat to its authority and has taken steps to curtail their activities. This crackdown on civil society further undermines the checks and balances that are essential for a functioning democracy.
The international community has not been silent on these issues. Sanctions have been imposed on Zimbabwe by various countries and organisations, including the European Union and the United States.
These sanctions are intended to pressure the government to respect human rights and implement democratic reforms.
However, their effectiveness is debatable. The government has used the sanctions as a rallying cry, blaming them for the country’s economic woes and diverting attention from its own failures.
Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope. The resilience and determination of the Zimbabwean people are remarkable.
Despite the odds, they continue to fight for a better future. Protests and demonstrations are a testament to this spirit. Young people, in particular, are demanding change and are unwilling to accept the status quo.
Social media has become a powerful tool for mobilisation and advocacy, allowing activists to bypass traditional media and reach a wider audience.
The role of the diaspora is also significant. Many Zimbabweans who have left the country in search of better opportunities remain deeply connected to their homeland.
They send remittances that support their families and contribute to the economy. They also play a crucial role in advocating for change, using their platforms to raise awareness about the situation in Zimbabwe and putting pressure on the international community to act.
The chaos in Zimbabwean institutions, as exemplified by my experience at the wellness spa in Mandara and the arrest of Mhlanga, is a symptom of deeper systemic issues.
Corruption, lack of accountability and political intransigence have eroded the foundations of our society.
The consequences are far-reaching, affecting every aspect of life, from healthcare and education to the economy and governance.
However, the resilience of the Zimbabwean people and their determination to fight for a better future offer a glimmer of hope. Real change will require sustained effort and a commitment to reform from all sectors of society.
Only then can we hope to rebuild our institutions and create a society that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all.
- Chirenje writes in her capacity as a citizen of Zimbabwe. Follow her on social media for more Lifezone with Grace conversations on Twitter: @graceruvimbo; Facebook: Grace Ruvimbo Chirenje; Instagram: @graceruvimbo
