Authoritarian regimes have long had a complicated relationship with media and communication technologies. The Unfreedom Monitor initiative by Global Voices Advox examines the rise of digital authoritarianism. The report highlights how the Rwandan government uses repressive laws, surveillance technology, and state-led crackdowns to suppress dissenting voices. The use of the Israeli spyware Pegasus to monitor political opponents, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, is a significant concern. The report underscores the importance of online privacy and data protection for the exercise of other democratic rights, such as freedom of expression and access to information.

The Unfreedom Monitor's report on Speech, part of a Global Voices Advox research initiative, examines the use of digital authoritarianism to constrain free speech, with a focus on Rwanda. The Rwandan government employs repressive laws, surveillance technology, and state-led crackdowns to silence dissent, leading to a culture of self-censorship. The government has been implicated in using Israeli NSO's Pegasus spyware to monitor political opponents, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, allegations it denies. The report underscores the importance of privacy and data protection online, as surveillance practices hinder journalists' and activists' freedom of expression.

The appointment of Abigail Ambrose, daughter of Vice President Kembo Mohadi, to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission has sparked outrage and debate over the commission's independence. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana defended the appointment, highlighting the polarisation between dissenting voices and the government. As Zimbabwe approaches the 2023 elections, the political environment is marked by propaganda and disinformation, with the government using digital platforms to maintain power. The human rights situation continues to deteriorate, and the regime's control over social media has intensified. Experts highlight the role of digital technology in spreading disinformation and propaganda, exacerbating the conflict over narrative space and impacting free expression.

Digital technology significantly contributes to the propagation of propaganda and disinformation, leveraging its vast platform to reach a wide audience and potentially threatening free expression in Zimbabwe.

In Masvingo, Zimbabwe, women and children, including the likes of Thelma Murambiwa and a 14-year-old boy named Alex, are illegally panning for gold in the Bhuka mountains to survive amidst a dire economic situation. Despite the risks of collapsing pits, arrest, and health hazards, the allure of gold and the necessity to provide for their families drive them to continue. The government-owned Fidelity Printers and Refiners reported an increase in gold output, but many miners lack permits and sophisticated equipment, leading to a thriving black market and environmental degradation. The National Aids Council highlighted the rise in HIV/AIDS and sexual exploitation in these mining communities.

The article discusses the potential influence of artificial intelligence and biometric technology on Zimbabwe's 2023 elections, highlighting concerns about transparency, voter data manipulation, and information security. It examines the role of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and its partnership with Chinese startup CloudWalk Technology, as well as the implications of using AI-driven facial recognition software. Experts express concerns about the misuse of biometric technology by authoritarian regimes and the challenges of collecting biometric data from marginalized groups. The article underscores the need for a solid legal framework and strict safeguards to protect privacy and personal security.

Zimbabwe's government is increasingly using legislation to repress digital rights, targeting human rights defenders and NGOs. The Data Protection Act, signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is criticized for infringing on citizens' digital rights and enabling government surveillance. Internet shutdowns and throttling have been used to suppress opposition activities, notably affecting Nelson Chamisa's rally. The European Union extended its embargo against Zimbabwe due to continued rights abuses. The Private Voluntary Organizations Amendment Bill is also controversial, with critics arguing it threatens civil society organizations and digital rights. Human rights lawyers warn that these laws are prone to abuse and undermine constitutional freedoms.

Zimbabwe's upcoming 2023 elections may be significantly influenced by artificial intelligence and biometric technology, amidst ongoing concerns about transparency and data security. The Citizens Coalition for Change recently won a majority in by-elections, but allegations of voter roll manipulation and data breaches persist. Zimbabwe's partnership with China's CloudWalk Technology for facial recognition raises further privacy issues. Experts argue that the misuse of biometric technology by repressive regimes could lead to voter intimidation and exclusion of marginalized groups. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission faces criticism for its handling of voter data and lack of transparency.

COVID-19 regulations in Zimbabwe have been used as a pretext to clamp down on digital rights and media freedom. The government has leveraged pandemic-related laws to suppress dissent and control information, particularly targeting journalists and activists. The arrest of journalist Hopewell Chino’ono and opposition leader Jacob Ngarivhume highlights the state's use of legal instruments to silence critics. Human rights organizations and digital rights activists argue that these measures are disproportionate and violate international human rights standards. The situation underscores the tension between public health measures and the protection of civil liberties.

The Zimbabwean government has used COVID-19 regulations to suppress digital rights and media freedom, particularly targeting anti-government protests and dissent. Key figures like journalist Hopewell Chino’ono and opposition leader Jacob Ngarivhume have been arrested under the pretext of pandemic control. Activists argue that these measures are a guise to stifle opposition and maintain control. The article highlights the tension between public health measures and human rights, with international bodies like the European Commission and Human Rights Watch weighing in on the situation.

Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders convened in Harare, Zimbabwe, to address the escalating security threats in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado Province, where insurgents linked to ISIS have been terrorizing civilians since 2017. The urgent Troika Summit, led by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, saw regional leaders commit to supporting Mozambique's fight against the insurgency. Despite Mozambique's recent military successes, the insurgency has killed over 1,000 people. The summit highlighted the need for a coordinated regional response, with South Africa considering further assistance. The African Union has also expressed concern, urging intervention beyond military measures.

Zimbabwe confirmed its first COVID-19 casualty, raising concerns about the country's ability to handle the pandemic given its fragile healthcare system and poor internet access. Zororo Makamba, a 30-year-old known for his video series, died from the virus. Healthcare workers have gone on strike due to a lack of personal protective equipment, and President Mnangagwa has banned large gatherings and closed educational institutions. Civil society groups are calling for a national effort to strengthen the healthcare system and improve access to information.

Zimbabwe's National Army Commander Edzai Chimonyo declared social media a threat to national security, sparking outrage over potential government surveillance and restrictions on freedom of expression. The proposed Cyber Crime, Security and Data Protection Bill, which allows government snooping on private communications, has faced criticism for its potential to cause self-censorship. The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) and various individuals have expressed concerns, while some, like Nobleman Runyanga, have a more sympathetic view towards the military's role. The article highlights fears of Zimbabwe moving towards a military state.

In the 2018 Zimbabwean elections, the introduction of a biometric voter registration system, developed in partnership with Chinese company CloudWalk Technology, raised concerns about voter intimidation and privacy. Despite promises of increased election security, the system's use by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, which had questionable independence, and the ruling party's actions post-election, led to distrust among voters. The lack of a data protection law in Zimbabwe and the potential for surveillance technology to limit freedoms heightened fears of a tech-driven authoritarian future. The partnership with CloudWalk is part of a pattern of questionable election-related business agreements in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe's 2018 elections were marred by distrust due to the introduction of a biometric voter registration system and a partnership with Chinese company CloudWalk Technology for facial recognition technology. The system, which required citizens to submit biometric data, was seen as a tool for voter intimidation and monitoring. Despite assurances, the technology's use was opaque, with no biometric checks conducted during voting and ruling party agents collecting registration slip serial numbers post-election. The lack of a data protection law in Zimbabwe and the potential for increased surveillance raised concerns about tech-driven authoritarianism. Civil society groups and experts criticized the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission's independence and the transparency of the election process.

Zimbabwe's online brigade, known as Varakashi, aggressively defends President Emmerson Mnangagwa by targeting activists, dissidents, and opposition figures on social media. The Varakashi, comprising government supporters and ZANU-PF members, engage in online harassment, spreading fake news, and disinformation to discredit critics. The article highlights the economic and social challenges Zimbabwe faces, including hyperinflation and power cuts, and the government's optimistic economic forecasts. It also details incidents of harassment and arrests of activists, the abduction of comedian Samantha Kureya, and the targeting of foreign embassies and NGOs. The Varakashi's actions have significantly impacted public discourse and stifled free online debate.

Zimbabwe's online brigade, known as Varakashi, aggressively defends President Emmerson Mnangagwa by targeting activists, dissidents, and opposition figures on social media. The Varakashi, comprising government-sponsored individuals and ZANU-PF supporters, aim to discredit critics by labeling them as unpatriotic agents of foreign powers. The article details various incidents of online harassment, including the arrest of activists and the abduction of comedian Samantha Kureya. Despite Zimbabwe's severe economic challenges, the government remains optimistic about future growth. The Varakashi also target Western diplomats and organizations, pushing the narrative that sanctions are to blame for the country's problems.

The Zimbabwean government, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has increasingly used disinformation and internet shutdowns to control public perception and suppress anti-government protests. This tactic, rooted in the country's colonial past, has led to a crisis of credible information, particularly during significant events like the January 2019 protests. The ruling ZANU PF party has been instrumental in spreading misinformation, targeting critics, and discrediting human rights organizations. The rise in mobile internet and social media usage has both empowered citizens and provided a fertile ground for government propaganda.

Since the ousting of Robert Mugabe in 2017, the Zimbabwean government under Emmerson Mnangagwa has been using social media disinformation to control public perception and suppress dissent. Tactics include spreading false information, discrediting reports as 'fake news', and internet shutdowns, particularly during anti-government protests. The rise in internet and mobile phone usage has made social media a battleground for information, with the government and its supporters actively working to mislead the public and discredit organizations like Human Rights Watch. The situation reflects a historical pattern of media control and suppression of free expression in Zimbabwe.

In January 2019, Zimbabwe experienced internet disruptions and social media access restrictions imposed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration, citing national security during protests against a fuel price hike. The disruptions, which included a total network shutdown in Harare and Bulawayo, were challenged and deemed illegal by the High Court. The government's control over the ICT market and potential future disruptions raise concerns about the state of digital rights in Zimbabwe. The Mnangagwa administration is also pushing for policies and a cybercrime bill that could further restrict online freedoms. Despite the diverse ICT market, the government maintains control through ownership and regulatory bodies. The cost of mobile data in Zimbabwe is one of the highest globally, making it inaccessible for many citizens. Activists and journalists emphasize the importance of digital rights awareness.

In January 2019, Zimbabwe experienced significant internet disruptions amid protests against a massive fuel price hike. The government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, restricted access to social media and entire networks, citing national security. The disruptions, which lasted several days, were partially lifted after a High Court ruling. Activists and journalists argue that the government's actions indicate a disregard for digital rights, with fears of future shutdowns. The administration's policies, including the National Policy for Information and Communications Technology and the proposed Computer Crime and Cybercrime Bill, aim to centralize control over the internet, further threatening freedom of expression and access to information. The ICT market in Zimbabwe is diverse, but the government maintains significant control through state-owned entities and regulatory bodies.

The return of Anjin Investments, a Chinese mining company, to Zimbabwe's diamond fields has raised concerns about resource exploitation and human rights abuses under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration. Anjin, previously expelled for failing to remit taxes, has resumed operations following pressure from Beijing. The company's history includes allegations of financial misconduct and worker abuse. The government's decision to allow Anjin and the Russian company Alrosa to operate has alarmed anti-corruption and human rights advocates. Calls for transparency and accountability from Chinese companies in Zimbabwe have intensified.

In January 2019, the Zimbabwean government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, imposed an internet and social media blockade following violent protests over a significant fuel price increase. The shutdown had a detrimental impact on the economy, with experts estimating a direct cost of $5.7 million for each day of the blackout. Businesses, particularly in the tech and e-commerce sectors, were severely affected, with operations grinding to a halt. The shutdown also disrupted mobile money services like EcoCash, which is central to the country's economy. Despite the economic damage, the government has stated it would not hesitate to repeat the shutdown for state security reasons. The World Bank projects Zimbabwe's GDP to grow by 3.7 percent, slightly above the estimate for sub-Saharan Africa. However, the internet blockade has highlighted the vulnerability of Zimbabwe's economy to such government actions.

Following a significant fuel price hike in Zimbabwe, civil unrest erupted, leading to violent protests and a government-ordered internet shutdown. The High Court later ruled the shutdown illegal, but the incident highlighted severe economic and human rights impacts. The government defended its actions, citing security concerns, while critics argued it was a gross violation of rights and an attempt to suppress dissent. The shutdown severely disrupted business and communication, exacerbating the country's economic crisis.

Following a significant fuel price hike in Zimbabwe, civil unrest erupted, leading to violent protests and a government-ordered internet shutdown. The High Court later ruled that the shutdown was unauthorized. The internet blackout severely impacted the economy, disrupting businesses and daily life. Human rights activists condemned the shutdown as a violation of rights, and the government's actions were widely criticized. The article highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression and the negative impact of government policies on Zimbabwe's citizens.

The article, reported by Kudzai Chimhangwa, describes the severe industrial decline in Harare's Workington Industrial area, once a hub of manufacturing activity in Zimbabwe. The area is now filled with abandoned buildings, rusting machinery, and overgrown vegetation, symbolizing the country's economic meltdown. The decline is attributed to capital flight, company closures, job losses, and ill-conceived political policies, including the indigenisation policy. Local economic analyst Takunda Mugaga and Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president George Nkiwane provide insights into the causes and impacts of the industrial collapse. The article notes that in 2013 alone, 711 companies in Harare closed, leading to over 8,000 job losses, with the situation worsening since then.