President Emmerson Mnangagwa receives letters of credence from Christine Schraner Burgener, the ambassador-designate of Switzerland at State House on August 13, 2026HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa is preparing a major overhaul of Zimbabwe’s diplomatic service, with more than two dozen diplomats set to be recalled, ZimLive has learnt.
Twenty-one new diplomats are currently undergoing training to fill the expected vacancies.
Sources said at least six of the diplomats due to be recalled will be reassigned to other missions in an unprecedented reshuffle.
Mnangagwa has reportedly told aides that some diplomats have underperformed, while others have remained at the same posting 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, ZBC board chairperson Helliate Rushwaya and former minister Miriam Chikukwa.
Zimbabwe maintains about 40 embassies and around 10 consulates worldwide, meaning the impending shake-up could affect more than half of the country’s diplomatic missions.
Foreign minister Prof Amon Murwira had not responded to requests for comment.