President Emmerson Mnangagwa says difficult Christmas celebration due to economic downturn

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that Zimbabwe will have a difficult Christmas as the country is experiencing its worst economic downturn in the decade. The nation is confronting its worst inflation since 2008 that picked to 10 years high of 31 percent last month.

Zimbabweans had hoped that new President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who came to power last year when Robert Mugabe resigned under military pressure, would bring new economic growth. But today unemployed people still walk the streets of Harare.

Meanwhile, the health sector is in crisis with doctors on strike for almost a month and there is the critical shortage of medicines. Even commodities like fuel, beverages and basic foods are also in short supply with many industries unable to produce due to foreign currency shortages.

"I am aware that many will have a difficult Christmas. I encourage all of us to be patient, resilient and to work harder in collective unity, as we create a better, democratic and prosperous Zimbabwe for all. From my family to yours, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year," President Emmerson Mnangagwa said, Business Day reported.