Assisting with Strategic Planning and Communications
Situation
Zimbabwe in 2008 saw an electoral crisis, international sanctions, food shortages and economic collapse so bad the currency was abandoned. Under international pressure, the long-time president and opposition leaders formed a Government of National Unity. The president’s main rival became Prime Minister.
Approach
My work involved provision of technical assistance to the Prime Minister’s office. Responsibilities involved planning and conducting a multi-day retreat for the Prime Minister, his cabinet and staff, where the main focus was rank-ordering priorities among issues thought to be in the Prime Minister’s manageable interests.
Results
Zimbabwe’s assets beyond natural wonders include solid infrastructure, if tired around the edges, rich farm land, though it’s not well managed, and abundant resources including diamonds. English is the language of business and politics. Literacy exceeds U. S. levels. They have all the building blocks to be a success story, yet growth and reform remain the urgent challenges.
Immediately below: sculpture garden, outside Harare. Below that: on office wall.
Two photos below: Mana Pools. Courtesy Patrick Fn’Piere.