Country Profile: Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa, is a landlocked country bordered by South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, and Mozambique. It has a population of approximately 17.15 million people, predominantly of Shona and Ndebele ethnic groups. The economy is classified as a low-income Sub-Saharan economy, heavily reliant on natural resource extraction, agriculture, and remittances. Political instability and corruption have hindered economic reforms and debt restructuring, leading to ongoing hyperinflation challenges.
Geography
Zimbabwe's total area is approximately 390,757 sq km, characterized by a mostly high plateau with a tropical climate moderated by altitude. The country is landlocked, with no coastline, and features significant natural resources including coal, gold, and platinum. Major rivers include the Zambezi and Limpopo, which form natural boundaries with neighboring countries.
- 3,229 km: Total land boundaries
- 2,592 m: Highest point (Inyangani)
- 41.8%: Agricultural land as of 2023
People and Society
As of 2024, Zimbabwe's total population is estimated at 17,150,352, with a slight female majority. The country has a diverse linguistic landscape, with Shona being the most widely spoken language. The median age is around 21.2 years, reflecting a relatively young population. Urbanization is ongoing, with 32.5% of the population living in urban areas.
- 38.3%: Population under 14 years
- 67.2 years: Life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
- 1.91%: Annual population growth rate (2024 est.)
Economy
Zimbabwe's economy is marked by political instability and endemic corruption, which have stalled reforms and left it highly dependent on agriculture and mineral extraction. In 2024, Zimbabwe's GDP (PPP) is estimated at $57.391 billion with a growth rate of 2%. The introduction of the new Zimbabwe Gold currency aims to address hyperinflation.
- Unemployment rate: 8.6% (2024 est.)
- 9.4%: Remittances as a percentage of GDP (2023)
- 104.7%: Inflation rate (2022 est.)
Government
Zimbabwe is a presidential republic with significant historical influences from colonial rule and a long-standing struggle for independence. The capital, Harare, serves as both the political and economic center. The current president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, was re-elected in 2023, and the government consists of a bicameral legislature.
- 1980: Year of independence from the UK
- 8 provinces and 2 cities: Main administrative divisions
- Suffrage age: 18 years
Military and Security
The Zimbabwe Defense Forces, comprising the Zimbabwe National Army and the Air Force of Zimbabwe, are responsible for national security. Military spending is estimated at 0.4% of GDP in 2024. The country faces a range of security challenges, including political tensions and economic crisis.
- 30,000: Approximate active military personnel (2025)
- Voluntary service: Age 18-22 for military service (no conscription)
- Military ties with China and Russia
Energy
Zimbabwe's electricity access is limited, with only 50.1% of the population having access to electricity as of 2022. The generation capacity as of 2023 is about 2.491 million kW, primarily derived from hydroelectric sources.
- 8.346 billion kWh: Total electricity consumption (2023)
- 67.5%: Hydroelectricity's share of installed capacity
- 7.968 million metric tons: Coal production (2023)
Environment
Zimbabwe faces several environmental issues, including deforestation, soil erosion, and air and water pollution. The country is a party to numerous international environmental agreements, but challenges in sustainable management persist.
- 20 billion cubic meters: Total renewable water resources (2022)
- 12.578 million metric tonnes: CO2 emissions (2023)
- 1.45 million tons: Annual municipal solid waste generated (2024)
Transportation
Transportation infrastructure in Zimbabwe includes 144 airports and a railway network of 3,427 km. However, road and rail systems often face maintenance challenges, affecting transport efficiency.
- 3,427 km: Total railway length (2014)
- 5 heliports: As of 2025
Communications
The communication sector in Zimbabwe is characterized by a growing mobile cellular network, with approximately 15 million mobile subscriptions as of 2023. Internet access and fixed-line subscriptions remain limited.
- 38%: Internet user percentage of the population (2023)
- 310,000: Fixed-line subscriptions (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 17,150,352 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 390,757 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (PPP) | $57.391 billion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 8.6% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 67.2 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 28.8 births/1,000 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Electricity Access | 50.1% | Estimated for 2022 |
| Military Expenditure | 0.4% of GDP | Estimated for 2024 |
| Population Below Poverty Line | 38.3% | Estimated for 2019 |
| Urban Population | 32.5% | Of total population (2023) |
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