Zimbabwe: Teachers to demonstrate in Harare January 7 /update 1

Event

Teachers in Zimbabwe will reportedly demonstrate in central Harare on Monday, January 7. Protesters will gather from 09:00 (local time) at Africa Unity Square and proceed to the Ministry of Finance building for a rally to call for salary hikes and adequate teaching materials, among other demands. A heightened security presence is expected along with associated transportation disruptions. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out. 

Context

Teachers are demanding to be paid in US dollars and the immediate payment of outstanding bonuses. Teachers in Zimbabwe launched a 270 km (168 mi) protest march from Mutare to the capital Harare in December where many have camped outside the Ministry of Finance building in protest. 

The country has been experiencing a deteriorating economic situation for more than a year, due in part to a lack of liquidity. As of December 2018, inflation rates continue to accelerate as the government prints "bond notes" in response to cash shortages linked to foreign currency shortages. The government had hoped that the July elections would lead to increased and much-needed foreign investment, but this has not materialized.

Advice

Individuals in Harare are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.