Councils ordered to buy Mnangagwa biography

Local authorities in Zimbabwe have been directed to purchase copies of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's biography, A Life of Sacrifice, in a move that has raised concerns over the use of public funds.

A circular dated March 31, 2026, from John Basera, secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, instructs town clerks, council secretaries, and chief executive officers to "make the necessary arrangements" to procure the book for distribution within their jurisdictions, including schools.

The directive relates to a revised and translated edition of the biography authored by Edmund Cross, originally launched in 2021 and now produced by publisher Jarach Media. The latest version has been translated into Shona, Ndebele, and Tonga.

According to the circular, the publisher is seeking institutional and individual support, with copies priced at US$17 each, or US$15 for bulk purchases of 100 or more.

"The biography provides a close insight into the life and journey of one of Zimbabwe's illustrious sons," Basera wrote, urging local authorities to acquire what he described as an "invaluable book."

However, the directive has drawn criticism, with concerns that it places additional financial strain on already cash-strapped councils, many of which are struggling to deliver essential services.

Critics argue that requiring local authorities to fund the purchase of the President's biography risks diverting limited public resources away from critical service delivery priorities.