Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa Offers Lukashenko Minerals As Opposition Raises Red Flags Over Zim's Relationship With Belarus

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has invited Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to explore Zimbabwe's mineral reserves.

Mnangagwa made this offer during his recent visit to Belarus. This visit aimed to help improve Zimbabwe's struggling economy. He was accompanied by several cabinet ministers and signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding with Belarus.

"We see great benefits in mineral extraction," Mnangagwa stated. "Together, we can create a framework for investment that boosts productivity and helps our economies grow."

Zimbabwe is rich in minerals, attracting many foreign investors, especially from China, in the lithium sector. However, observers note that this extraction has not improved the lives of ordinary citizens.

If Lukashenko accepts Mnangagwa's invitation, Belarus will join the mineral rush.

On Tuesday, Edwin Mushoriwa, a Member of Parliament from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), expressed concerns about Zimbabwe's relationship with Belarus. He raised these issues while discussing a bilateral agreement on investment protection.

Mushoriwa warned about potential exploitation of trade arrangements by well-connected individuals. He noted that some deals were made by the Ministry of Local Government and imposed on local authorities using devolution funds.

He emphasized that Parliament should not endorse agreements based solely on political friendship. "An agreement cannot be based on friendship alone," Mushoriwa said.