KQ3: Zimbabwe - poor governance, so lack of development, inequality

Question 1

Some facts about Zimbabwe? (6)

Answer 1

• Population - 13 million
• GNI/PPP - $360
• Life expectancy - 53 years (was 61 in 1990)
• HIV prevalence rate (aged 15 to 49) - 15%
• From 2007-2009, hyperinflation due to poor economic and political decisions.
• Since 2009, main currency is US $ which has restored economic stability.

Question 2

Evidence of poor governance/ lack of development? 1990’s:

Answer 2

1990’s: Increasing evidence of govt. corruption - doctors not paid left the country, life expectancy dropped, HIV rose to over 20%.
Mugabe the president also started forcing white farmers off their land and replaced them with Africans who had no knowledge of farming.
Export earnings fell as production dropped, buyers chose not to trade with a corrupt regime.

Question 3

Evidence of poor governance/ lack of development? 2000’s:

Answer 3

2000’s: Mugabe dealt with illegal slums by bulldozing them, leaving large numbers homeless.
Hyperinflation as food supplies failed, health service nearly collapsed, cholera epidemics in cities.
No exports, meant no foreign exchange - no fuel imported, so shortages and powercuts took place.
Those that could, migrated to South Africa.

Question 4

Evidence of poor governance/ lack of development? 2009:

Answer 4

2009: Mugabe joins a joint govt. with opposition politician after disputed elections. Hyperinflation reduced - use of US $.

Question 5

Evidence of poor governance/ lack of development? 2010 onwards:

Answer 5

2010 onwards: China suddenly became Zimbabwe’s main trade partner, buying mainly minerals (diamonds, gold).
China funds roads, health and universities.
Development now progressing…

Question 6

Population?

Answer 6

13 million

Question 7

Life expectancy?

Answer 7

53 years

Question 8

HIV prevalence rate (15-49yrs)?

Answer 8

15%

Question 9

When were US $ introduced?

Answer 9

2009