Zimbabwe

Översikt

Zimbabwe has a turbulent security environment as a result of disputed elections, political violence and economic mismanagement. The struggle for independence, land and power can be seen throughout the years. Severe drought has been a constant problem for the country since 2000. Emmerson Mnangagwa from the ruling Zanu-PF party became president in November 2017, pledging to stabilize the economy and boost foreign investment, however, price hikes and high inflation has led to multiple street protests.  

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Zimbabwe. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip to Zimbabwe. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Cholera is found in most parts of Zimbabwe. Confirmed cases of cholera have been reported in Mashonaland East Province.

Malaria is a concern throughout Zimbabwe, including urban areas.

Zimbabwe has risk of ongoing Chikungunya and Dengue transmission. Travellers should take meticulous anti-mosquito bite measures during the daytime.

The risk of African Tick-Bite fever is present in Zimbabwe. Ticks that transmit ATBF are most active from February to May in Zimbabwe. Travellers who participate in outdoor activities in rural regions of endemic areas should take measures to prevent tick bites.

Schistosomiasis risk is present in the whole country, including urban areas. Avoid swimming in fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands and eating raw foods which have not been washed with purified water.

Zimbabwe has one of the highest HIV prevalences in sub-Saharan Africa at 13.3%, with 1.3 million people living with HIV. The HIV epidemic in Zimbabwe is generalised and is largely driven by unprotected heterosexual sex. However, there are growing epidemics among key populations such as sex workers and men who have sex with men who are at higher risk of HIV.

In addition to these health risks, travellers diarrhoea is the most common travel-related medical problem affecting travellers to Zimbabwe. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been boiled.

Tuberculosis is highly endemic and a major public health problem in Zimbabwe.

Due to the range of health hazards present in the country and the dearth of high quality medical care, you must have comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Zimbabwe. You must ensure that this insurance covers all eventualities in Zimbabwe. Note that you may well have to pay in cash for emergency services even if you have travel insurance.

Pass

Passports should be valid for six months after your intended date of departure from the country.

Visum

Zimbabwe has a tiered visa system which is categorized into three sections:

-Nationals who do not require a visa
-Nationals who may apply and pay for visa upon entry
-Nationals who require a visa prior to entry

Most nationals from Western Europe and North America can obtain a visa at port of entry with sufficient provision of documents and payment of a fee.