Zimbabwe's First Family Still In Troubled Waters

Mr Mugabe remains a controversial figure in African and international politics owing to his refusal to relinquish the drivers’ seat of his country after more than three decades of his presidency. Last weekend, he clocked 91, attracting the praise and solidarity of some and the disdain of others.VENTURES AFRICA – In what came as a shocker to many, President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe emerged Chair of the African Union (AU) at its last annual summit less than a month ago. Hopes had emerged that, based on the significance of his new office – which he juggles with the presidency of his country and the Chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) – the European Union (EU) would lift previous travel sanctions imposed on him and his wife, First Lady Grace Mugabe. But reports have suggested the exact opposite.

The EU has renewed sanctions levied on the Mugabe family for another year, a move that can potentially destroy the rekindling of a relationship that was brewing between Zimbabwe and the bloc. According to a recent notice in the EU’s official journal, the decision, which was arrived at after “taking into account political developments in Zimbabwe,” would be maintained until 20th February, 2016.

The application of the travel ban and asset freeze should be maintained for two persons and one entity. The suspension shall be reviewed every three months. This decision shall be kept under constant review and shall be extended, or amended as appropriate, if the council deems that its objectives have not been met,” the notice read.

Excerpt Emmanuel Iruobe On Ventures Aftica