“It’s political harassment”, was the angry response from Kenya’s former secretary of tourism and wildlife, Najib Balala.
Zimbabwe’s image as a safe and welcoming tourism destination may have been damaged when its former Minister of Tourism, who was also Africa’s candidate for UN Tourism Secretary-General in 2017, was removed from office.
After the overthrow of the Mugabe regime, Mzembi was arrested in 2018 on erroneous charges and cleared by Zimbabwe’s highest court. He was forced to leave the country and was in exile until the new president was elected. Previously exiled former Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi was invited back to Zimbabwe and had a meeting with President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House, only to be arrested on unknown charges.
African Forum for Cultural Diplomacy
Mzembi is also the President of the African Forum for Cultural Diplomacy, a high-level UK-headquartered CIC, and the Africa Chapter of the Institute of Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) in Berlin.
The Forum for Cultural Diplomacy expressed its support for Dr. Walter Mzembi.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and fellow advocates for cultural diplomacy, we gather today with grave concern regarding the arrest and denial of bail for Dr. Walter Mzembi, President of the African Forum for Cultural Diplomacy (AFFCD), while on a cultural diplomacy mission in Zimbabwe. Dr. Walter Mzembi is the President of the African Forum for Cultural Diplomacy (AFFCD), a UK-headquartered CIC, and the Berlin-based Institute of Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) Africa Chapter.
Dr. Walter Mzembi was recognized by ICD and mandated to spearhead the Africa Chapter in recognition of his service in the field of diplomacy, spanning nearly two decades. This service included a decade as Minister of Tourism for Zimbabwe, culminating in his public service career as Minister of Foreign Affairs, which ended in November 2017.
He is best remembered as the African Union candidate for the elective post of Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and President of its General Assembly in 2013, and as a member between sessions from 2015 to 2017.
A distinguished public servant, he has been honored both at home and abroad for his contributions to the fields of international relations and tourism. Dr. Mzembi’s work with AFFCD focuses on fostering cultural diplomacy and governance solutions across Africa. His recent engagements in the UK and intervention in the Mozambique post-election crisis demonstrate the organization’s commitment to advancing center politics, moderation, and inclusivity based on African values.
Dr. Mzembi is a Zimbabwean diplomat and former Minister of Foreign Affairs who has been involved in various international engagements, including attending the World Forum on the Future of Democracy in Berlin alongside global leaders such as former President of the United States Bill Clinton and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Context of Arrest:
Dr. Mzembi was arrested on June 13, 2025, by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) upon his return to Zimbabwe on a warrant of arrest emanating from historic cases dating back to his tenure in government, from 2010 to 2017. He appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court, which remanded him in custody until today, where a ruling confirmed his warrant of arrest but denied him bail. His trial date has been set for 1’1 July 2025. Given his prominent role in cultural diplomacy, we urge the authorities to ensure his safety and fair treatment.
Concerns and Implications – Diplomatic Implications:
The arrest and denial of bail may impact Zimbabwe’s diplomatic relations and the country’s perception in the international community regarding its commitment to cultural exchange. It is our view that the warrant of arrest could have been dealt with more humanely and diplomatically than having to incarcerate and humiliate Dr. Mzembi.
Human Rights:
We emphasize the importance of upholding Dr. Mzembi’s human rights, including access to a fair, speedy, and transparent trial.
*Cultural Diplomacy Mission*: AFFCD’s mission aims to promote cultural understanding and cooperation. Dr. Mzembi’s arrest may undermine these efforts, given his extensive work in the UK and Berlin, which sought to re-engage Zimbabwe with the comity of nations, including its re-admission to the Commonwealth.
Call to Action:
We call upon the relevant authorities to ensure due process and guarantee Dr. Mzembi’s right to a fair trial and access to legal representation. – Transparency: Guarantee a speedy trial within a reasonable time, the trial date set for the 1st July 2025.
Respect for Diplomatic Efforts:
Consider the implications of this action on Zimbabwe’s diplomatic relations and cultural exchange initiatives. Dr. Mzembi has done amazing work in cultural diplomacy, and we believe it’s crucial that he’s treated fairly and that his rights are respected. Let’s support him and push for a transparent process. Let’s stand in solidarity with Dr. Mzembi and AFFCD, promoting cultural diplomacy and advocating for the rights of individuals engaged in diplomatic efforts.
