On Sunday, 03 May 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa undertook a working visit to the Republic of Zimbabwe at the invitation of HE President Emmerson Mnangangwa. The visit was an opportunity for both heads of state to engage over a wide range of issues of mutual and bilateral interests.
South Africa and Zimbabwe maintain a deeply historical relationship of bonds formed during their respective struggles against colonialism and apartheid. The two countries further enjoy a political and dynamic trade relationship. In 2025, South African exports totaled about U$4,30 billion with agricultural products and machinery dominating most traded goods.
Both President’s agreed to retreat to President Mnangagwa’s farm where they would engage in a relaxed environment and outside of the constraints of Presidential formality and protocol. Over and above the planned meeting, President Ramaphosa was interested in learning how President Mnangangwa is assisting local farmers in the area neighboring his farm.
The Presidency has noted with concern the reports that have surfaced following the President’s visit to Zimbabwe, identifying an individual who is a person of interest to our law enforcement, who was also present during the visit.
President Ramaphosa had no prior knowledge of who will be present during the visit nor was he familiar with the said individual.
The President flew to Zimbabwe for a meeting with his counterpart and nothing else.
President Ramaphosa encourages our law enforcement agencies to continue with pursuing the matters that are under investigation involving these individuals and to do so with no fear or hesitation.
