Introduction Zimbabwe is a country of immense human and natural potential. For much of its twenty years of independence, it has been second only to South Africa as the most highly developed country in the Southern Africa region. As a country that struggled successfully against white minority rule, Zimbabwe was a beacon of hope for the region and the world. Until recently, Zimbabwe was seen as a model in the region with a peaceful law-abiding populace who worked hard to develop its resources despite warring neighbors. There is no indication that the problems will be solved in the near term.
Economic growth is stalled due to the government deficit, high inflation and high interest rates.
Economic reforms are off-track and International Monetary Fund and World Bank programs are on hold. Sixty percent of the population lives below the poverty line, unemployment is about 70 percent, and inflation is currently at 63 percent. All of this is exacerbated by continued government spending on military action in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, a dynamic political transition is occurring with the emergence of a credible opposition party during the 2000 parliamentary elections. The opposition has offered an alternative candidate in the 2002 presidential elections and has introduced a competitive voice in national affairs.