Story by ZBC Reporters
ZIMBABWEANS this Monday dismissed calls for unauthorised demonstrations, with a calm and peaceful atmosphere prevailing across the country.
In the capital, Harare, residents conducted their daily business as usual.
A local teacher noted, “It is a day like any other; we have been busy with our work and are preparing for our examinations.” Similarly, a commuter operator observed, “The situation remains steady, though the number of commuters is lower than usual.”
At Harare Magistrates Court, proceedings continued as normal, while retail operators and vendors maintained regular business. Although there were a few isolated incidents of rowdy behaviour as the day progressed, the Zimbabwe Republic Police swiftly restored order.
In Bulawayo, vendors, retailers, and omnibus operators also carried out their activities peacefully.
One citizen remarked, “There was a shortage of transport this morning, but now everything is falling into place. People are gradually returning to town. Social media is unreliable for accurate information.”
Meanwhile, at Garanyemba Secondary School in Gwanda, Matabeleland South Province, it was business as usual. As the bell rang for a Form Three English lesson, learners transitioned from the computer laboratory to the classroom, signalling their commitment to education despite social media incitements for illegal demonstrations.
Parents reported that all classes, including those under the school feeding programme, were operating normally.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education confirmed that all teachers reported for duty and schools opened as scheduled.
In Matabeleland North Province, Victoria Falls, renowned as Zimbabwe’s tourism capital, was bustling with international visitors.
Tourists from Wales and India shared positive impressions of the site. One tourist commented, “We have had a lovely time in Zimbabwe. The people are warm, welcoming and enthusiastic about their surroundings.” Another added, “Victoria Falls is truly otherworldly, the beauty and kindness of the people here are exceptional.”
Tourism operators criticised the planned demonstrations, warning of potential adverse impacts on the sector.
“The tourism industry is fragile, and any disturbance could have long-lasting effects. Demonstrations will not solve our problems; dialogue is the way forward. We are committed to maintaining a peaceful environment, which is essential for tourism,” stated Curio Vendor.
Elsewhere in Gweru, Midlands Province, residents expressed satisfaction that normal business operations continued despite isolated threats.
“Today is just like any other day. We are enjoying our normal routine, and the peaceful environment is vital for our development,” said a local resident.
In Mashonaland Central, retail shops, banks, and small enterprises in Bindura, Glendale, and Mazowe operated as usual, with little evidence of unrest. Similarly, in Marondera, Mashonaland East, citizens commended the peaceful conditions.
“As vendors, we are progressive people who value development. The calm environment has allowed us to operate efficiently, and we thank our security forces for ensuring peace,” a vendor stated.
In Chinhoyi, residents denounced violence as counterproductive.
“Business was slow in the early hours, but the central business district soon filled up. We have families to support and believe that violence only hinders progress,” locals remarked.
According to government officials, no protests were reported in Mashonaland West.
“While there was a temporary halt in public transport during the early hours, normal service resumed by 9 o’clock, and business operations have since returned to normal,” explained Mr Josphat Jaji, Permanent Secretary of Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
In Mutare, Manicaland Province, despite some caution among residents, shops and industries continued their activities without incident.
“There is no violence here in Mutare; we are working peacefully and ensuring that our daily routines are maintained,” commented a resident.
In Masvingo Province, observations from various locations, including the Mucheke light industry and local business centres, confirmed that normal business operations resumed early in the day.
“Our major shops are open, and people can buy their groceries and conduct their business without any disturbance,” a local resident reported.
Across Zimbabwe, progressive citizens have denounced unauthorised demonstrations, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a peace-loving nation.
