President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially appointed Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as the new Chief Justice of the Republic of Zimbabwe, marking a historic milestone in the country’s judicial system.

Justice Gwaunza becomes the first woman in Zimbabwe’s history to hold the prestigious position, taking over from Justice Luke Malaba, whose tenure came to an end yesterday after a distinguished 45-year career in the judiciary.

Announcing the appointments, President Mnangagwa said Justice Gwaunza assumes leadership of the Judiciary with immediate effect after serving with distinction as Deputy Chief Justice since 2018.

“Today, she breaks new ground as the first female Chief Justice in the history of Zimbabwe,” said the President.

The Head of State also announced the appointment of Justice Paddington Garwe as the new Deputy Chief Justice.

President Mnangagwa said the appointments were made in accordance with Section 180(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and reflect Government’s confidence in the two senior judges’ experience, professionalism and commitment to justice.

“Both appointments bring unparalleled legal expertise and decades of judicial experience to our apex courts,” he said.

Justice Gwaunza is widely respected within legal circles for her extensive judicial experience and contribution to Zimbabwe’s legal system over several decades. Her elevation to the country’s top judicial office is being viewed as a landmark achievement for gender representation within the judiciary and public institutions.

Justice Garwe, who now assumes the role of Deputy Chief Justice, also brings vast legal expertise and judicial experience to the Supreme and Constitutional Courts.

The appointments usher in a new leadership era for Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system following the retirement of Chief Justice Malaba, who served in various judicial capacities over four decades.

President Mnangagwa called on Zimbabweans to congratulate the newly appointed judicial leaders as they take up their new responsibilities.

“Let us congratulate Justice Gwaunza and Justice Garwe as they lead our justice delivery system forward,” he said.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to growing its tourism sector after hosting Shaikha Al Nowais, the newly appointed Secretary-General of UN Tourism, in Harare.

Speaking after the meeting, President Mnangagwa described the visit as a great honour, highlighting its significance for both Zimbabwe and the global tourism community.

Ms. Al Nowais’ appointment marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first woman to lead the organisation in its 50-year history.

The discussions focused on strengthening Zimbabwe’s position as a leading global tourism destination. President Mnangagwa emphasized the country’s vast potential, from its natural attractions to its rich cultural heritage, noting that tourism remains a key pillar for economic growth.

“We discussed enhancing Zimbabwe’s standing as a premier global destination and harnessing sustainable tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation,” said the President.

Zimbabwe has in recent years intensified efforts to promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that growth in the sector benefits local communities while preserving the environment.

Collaboration with UN Tourism is expected to play a critical role in achieving these goals through international partnerships, investment opportunities, and global marketing initiatives.

President Mnangagwa also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to working closely with international stakeholders to showcase Zimbabwe’s unique appeal.

“Zimbabwe remains committed to collaborating closely with UN Tourism to showcase the beauty and hospitality of our nation to the world,” he added.

The visit by Ms. Al Nowais is seen as a strategic step toward strengthening Zimbabwe’s visibility on the global tourism map, while also aligning the country with international best practices in sustainable tourism development.

Zimbabwe and Botswana have reaffirmed their long-standing diplomatic and economic relations following the Fifth Session of the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC), hosted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare.

President Mnangagwa said the high-level meeting with Botswana President Advocate Duma Boko marks a shift toward stronger economic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

“The outcomes of this Session are both instructive and forward-looking. They demonstrate our shared resolve to transform our longstanding political relations into a more dynamic, results-driven economic partnership,” he said.

The Zimbabwean leader emphasized that agreements signed at the BNC must now deliver tangible results, particularly in trade, investment and infrastructure development.

“The agreements… must now serve as instruments for accelerated trade, enhanced investment flows, industrial collaboration and sustainable development,” he added.

Key priorities include the operationalisation of the Plumtree/Ramokgwebana One-Stop Border Post, removal of non-tariff barriers and expansion of cross-border infrastructure to improve trade efficiency.

Earlier, President Boko highlighted the deep historical ties between Zimbabwe and Botswana, describing the relationship as a foundation for shared prosperity.

“These ties continue to provide a firm foundation upon which we advance our common aspirations for prosperity, stability and sustainable development,” he said.

He noted that the Bi-National Commission remains a critical platform for cooperation in sectors such as trade, agriculture, energy, health and security.

The two leaders agreed that regional cooperation within SADC is essential in addressing global economic challenges, improving trade flows and boosting investment.

With increased focus on implementation, private sector participation and infrastructure development, the Zimbabwe-Botswana partnership is expected to play a key role in advancing regional integration and economic growth in Southern Africa.