Event Summary
On 4 November 2025, the Government of Zimbabwe convened an African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) review meeting with civil society in Harare, reaffirming its commitment to governance reforms and regional integration. The APRM, an African Union initiative, provides a platform for dialogue on governance and socio-economic indicators, engaging government institutions, CSOs, private sector, and media. This review was notable for the inclusion of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), signaling potential openness to collaboration. CSOs assessed Zimbabwe’s progress on issues such as women’s rights, anti-corruption measures, and engagement with state institutions. Ambassador Albert Ranganai Chimbindi, APRM Focal Point, emphasized the government’s willingness to engage but urged CSOs to use existing channels rather than seeking high-level access, which he argued yields limited results.
Despite positive engagement, procedural shortcomings emerged: late invitations, outdated mailing lists, and missed communication prevented some CSOs from participating. These gaps raise concerns about inclusivity and coordination in future processes. While the meeting suggests a step toward constructive dialogue, the effectiveness of such engagement remains uncertain. If coordination improves, this could strengthen civic space and accountability.