Mnangagwa plans major diplomatic shake-up

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is preparing a major overhaul of Zimbabwe's diplomatic service, with more than two dozen diplomats expected to be recalled, according to sources.

Twenty-one new diplomats are reportedly undergoing training to fill vacancies expected to arise from the planned changes.

Sources said at least six of the diplomats due to be recalled could be reassigned to other missions, in what would amount to an unusually wide-ranging reshuffle of Zimbabwe's foreign service.

Mnangagwa has reportedly told aides that some diplomats have underperformed, while others have remained at the same postings for too long.

"The thrust of this president is investment and rebranding Zimbabwe. On that measure, he believes some of them have fallen short," a Government source said.

Among those being prepared for diplomatic assignments are retired Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation board chairperson Helliate Rushwaya and former minister Miriam Chikukwa.

Zimbabwe maintains about 40 embassies and roughly 10 consulates worldwide, meaning the proposed changes could affect more than half of the country's diplomatic missions.

The reshuffle is expected to focus on aligning Zimbabwe's diplomatic service with the Government's economic diplomacy agenda, particularly efforts to attract investment and improve the country's international image.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira had not responded to requests for comment by the time of publication.

The proposed changes would represent one of the most significant shake-ups of Zimbabwe's diplomatic corps in recent years.