According to the current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication, Zimbabwe has been assessed as Level 2: Exercise increased caution.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

U.S. Embassy Harare does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The ACS Unit cannot recommend a particular individual or location and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Harare as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Please review OSAC’s Zimbabwe-specific webpage for proprietary analytic reports, Consular Messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

Overall crime increased 10-20% across most sectors in 2017. Lingering effects from the 2016 introduction of Bond Notes (Zimbabwean currency that is not backed by securities but remains pegged at 1-1 with the U.S. Dollar) continues to drive increasing rates of crime across all sectors. The thirst for genuine U.S. Dollars that can be exported or exchanged on the international markets is the motivation behind the constant criminal threat of targets of opportunity to include robberies, petty theft, vehicle burglaries, home invasions, and smash-and-grab vehicle attacks at intersections at night (usually at intersections with inoperable traffic lights).

Due to the combined political and economic conditions, the U.S. Embassy continues to strongly advise against walking alone in the main city centers of Harare or Bulawayo during hours of darkness. For those who make Harare their home, increased physical (residential) security precautions should be taken, such as installation of anti-forced entry devices (solid doors/grilles) and robust perimeter fence at least 6.5 feet high topped by razor and/or electric wire. An automatic or manned vehicular gate control mechanism is also highly recommended. Any house alarm that sounds an audible alarm (with a panic button) is very useful and strongly recommended. Private security “response” capability is also strongly advised, as the ZRP do not routinely patrol neighborhoods. Residential crime incidents reported to the RSO indicate that suspects flee in a majority of the cases when the alarm sounds and/or other robust security devices are encountered. Several U.S. Embassy homes experienced attempted burglaries and trespassing incidents in 2016 (less so in 2017, as many neighborhoods continued to be hardened, which deterred residential crime) that were successful when installed security measures were not used.

Businesses known to house or store large sums of cash were specifically targeted and employees were victimized in several instances. Employee or “inside jobs” were also believed to be the catalyst for business crimes in 2017.

There are multiple reports of ATM skimming and spotting incidents in Harare, resulting in victims being followed or attacked upon arrival at a residence. While the queues at the banks spiked mid-year, the volume of available cash in banks and ATMs continued to drop, which resulted in less instances of ATM-related crimes. Credit card theft/fraud was reported periodically. The U.S. Embassy received information of a far-reaching credit card/identity theft scheme operating in Harare that victimized dozens of persons in the U.S. Due to the chronic economic challenges in 2017 (continued use of bond notes and the cash liquidity crises), crimes of opportunity that involve a low risk of arrest combined with the high chance of obtaining USD remain a key target of criminals. Use extreme caution and utilize ATMs at reputable banks, preferably those that employ uniformed guards to protect customers using ATM devices. For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud.”

Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.”

Road Safety and Road Conditions

The greatest danger to a person’s physical wellbeing in Zimbabwe is being involved in a serious road accident. Large overloaded trucks ply the main roads; highways are often narrow and have abrupt step-downs off the asphalt onto the shoulders. Motorists routinely exceed the speed limit. Most roads lack passing lanes, shoulders, lighting, reflectors, and other safety features. Large potholes are frequent in cities and on the highways, causing drivers to swerve at high speeds. At highway speeds, the potholes can be very dangerous and are difficult to see due to poorly illuminated roadways. Other hazards that motorists will encounter, especially at night, are:

pedestrians in dark clothing walking along or on the roads;

motor vehicles with no head/taillights;

restricted visibility when passing;

faded lane markers and non-functioning street/traffic lights; and

service stations lacking fuel and spare parts.

Nighttime travel is substantially more dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Overall traffic fatalities increased in 2017.

With little maintenance and frequent power outages, traffic lights are often either non-functional or there is only one light working per intersection. It is customary for local drivers to use hazard lights when entering these intersections. Due care should be used in crossing any intersection that is not clearly marked by lights.

Throughout most of 2017, motorists were routinely stopped at high-profile police roadblocks and were often told they had committed some traffic infraction. Prior to “Operation Restore Legacy” in November 2017, the ZRP was mostly funded by fines collected at roadblocks, leading to an increase in traffic/vehicle citations. Police officers typically levied a “spot-fine” on motorists and demanded cash payment. Although this practice is technically legal with a maximum spot fine of US$20 per infraction, the practice is often used to extort higher amounts from unwitting motorists. Speed traps (radar) and other moving violations are strictly enforced. Government officials have publicly announced the increased enforcement of traffic violations due to the high number of traffic deaths as a result of speed, poor driving, unsafe vehicles, and aggressive driving. The lack of available cash in the banks and ATMs exasperated the number of ZRP road blocks in 2017. As of early 2018, the ZRP funding streams are unknown, and it is anticipated that the ZRP will not be funded officially at appropriate levels to function properly (without bribery and spot fines resuming).

Public Transportation Conditions

Public transportation is dominated by second-hand mini-van kombis. These vans are not regulated, inadequately maintained, and frequently in disrepair. Kombi drivers are often unlicensed and rarely follow the regulations of the road. Kombis are usually filled beyond capacity, which compounds all of the other safety deficiencies. Kombis are either directly involved or are a contributing factor in the majority of vehicle accidents involving U.S. Embassy personnel.

There are a few marked taxi companies in Harare. If you are staying at a reputable hotel, the front desk will likely have a taxi company or driver recommendations. Shuttle Direct, Avondale Taxi, and G-Taxi are some examples of reputable companies.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

Air Zimbabwe, the national carrier, is a failing business and has been blocked from international travel to the EU. U.S. Embassy staff has been prohibited from flying with Air Zimbabwe. The restriction was put into place due to the airline’s lack of an automated system for tracking the completion of safety checks.

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Harare as being a LOW-threat location for terrorist activity directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There were no large international terrorist groups claiming a presence or an incident in Zimbabwe in 2017. While the government of Zimbabwe attempts to exercise strong control within its borders and over its population, there are very few acts of extremism in the country. Due to the lack of budget, equipment, and technical capability of the authorities, it is possible that there is a growing number of nefarious individuals transiting or residing in Zimbabwe. There are also multiple crossing points and a lack of overhead monitoring.

Anti-American/Anti-Western Sentiment

There is anti-American, and to a certain extent, anti-Western sentiment in Zimbabwe. The new government of Zimbabwe is treading lightly in attempts to improve the domestic business and political environment. It is likely that the previous levels of anti-American sentiment will continue to taper off (save the editorial pages of the government-controlled newspapers).

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Harare as being a HIGH-threat location for political violence activity directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Civil Unrest

Prior to November 2017, the Zimbabwean government restricted large gatherings of people and generally issued permits for demonstrations only if the demonstration was clearly in favor of the government or a cause that the government supported. If a demonstration was supported by the government, but possibly inflammatory, the demonstrators would be accompanied by a considerable number of riot police. Operation Restore Legacy permitted several exceedingly large peaceful demonstrations in the streets of Harare and Bulawayo that were lightly protected by the ZDF. No large events have occurred since the end of November 2017.

Spontaneous or large-scale planned political demonstrations or protests are unlikely to return to the levels seen in 2016. Civil unrest is likely during and after the 2018 presidential elections, especially if “free and fair” election protocols are not followed.

Religious/Ethnic Violence

Although there are rivalries between the Shona majority and Ndebele minority, religious/ethnic violence is rare. Harare is dominated by the Shona, while Bulawayo is dominated by the Ndebele.

Political infighting continues among certain tribes that occasionally results in violence and intimidation.

Post-specific Concerns

Critical Infrastructure

Zimbabwe has an old, inadequate infrastructure. There are concerns related to water availability/safety/delivery and sewage disposal, the supply of consistent and adequate power to businesses and residents, and the upkeep of transportation systems to include highways and trains.

Economic Concerns

There is little economic espionage attributed to the government of Zimbabwe. Intellectual property theft centers on the piracy of music, movies, and computer software. 

Privacy Concerns

Due to the low level of automation and the inaccessibility of private information, concerns related to privacy are low. However, the IT capabilities are being developed and growing in capacity (wireless hot spots, bandwidth, and digital access).

Drug-related Crimes

While drug-related crimes do occur (primarily marijuana and ecstasy), they are not an overwhelming problem.

Police Response

Due to the significant changes in the political environment resulting from the November 14, 2017, “military intervention” by the Zimbabwean Defense Forces (ZDF), the show of force by ZDF military units has reduced the routine law enforcement protocols executed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). The ZRP had increased road blocks and spot fines throughout 2017 in an attempt to intimidate civil society (and to increase revenue). Due to the lack of official funding for the ZRP, the infractions and enforcement operations were designed to fill this funding gap. However, the levels of systemic corruption skyrocketed, as there was no oversight by governmental authorities. During 2017, the ZRP maintained a visible presence throughout the country.

But since the ZDF’s “Operation Restore Legacy,” the roadblocks and spot fines have dramatically reduced. As of early 2018, many ZRP operations were conducted jointly and with the approval of the ZDF. The unknown effect on countering or deterring routine crime remains to be evaluated. The populace is generally pleased with the end of ad hoc ZRP road blocks, but the opportunities for criminals to take advantage of the reduced police presence are concerning. 

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Comply with the instructions you receive from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). At the first opportunity, inform the consular section of the U.S. Embassy at +263-(0)4-250-593 x 4844.

Crime Victim Assistance

Contact the local police for assistance with any crime. After doing so, contact the consular section of the U.S. Embassy at +263-(0)4-250-593 x 4844

Police/Security Agencies

The Zimbabwe Republic Police are underfunded and poorly trained. They may find it difficult to respond to a call for mobile assistance. Often, they require a complainant to go to the nearest police station and pick up an officer to assist. Be aware that the level of competence varies. For vehicle accidents be patient, they will come, but it may take an extended period.

Medical Emergencies

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

Avenues Clinic

Corner Baines & Mazoe Avenues

+263-(0)4 251 144

Borrowdale Trauma

1 Borrowdale Lane

886921

AMI

15 Lanark Road; Belgravia

700666

Available Air Ambulance Services

Ace Ambulance Company

Tel: 0782-999-901

Tel: 04-302141

Emergency Medical Rescue Ambulance Service (EMRAS)

81 Baines Avenue, Avenues

Tel: +263 (0)4 250-011

Cell +263 (0) 772 141610

Medical Air Rescue Service (MARS)

9 Phillips Avenue, Belgravia

Tel: +263 (0)4 790391

Cell +263 (0) 772 219476