HARARE, ZIMBABWE – Information Secretary Nick Mangwana called for stricter gun control for foreign nationals after multiple violent incidents, including a January 21 confrontation where a Chinese national threatened workers with a pistol in Lower Gweru.
The review proposal follows a shooting in Filabusi where a Chinese national injured a 20-year-old Zimbabwean, heightening concerns about firearm misuse in labor disputes.
“Zimbabwe’s culture of responsible gun ownership must be protected,” Mangwana posted on X. He questioned why foreigners receive gun privileges while Zimbabweans face strict limitations abroad.
The Centre for Natural Resources Governance reports growing alarm over armed confrontations involving Chinese nationals at workplaces. This follows the 30-year sentencing of Chinese national Cai Yulong for murdering a miner in Zhombe.
Recent incidents include the deportation of two Chinese nationals for worker abuse at Makanga Mine in Bindura, prompting calls for stricter oversight of foreign-owned businesses.
The proposed policy review aims to address mounting public safety concerns and align Zimbabwe’s gun ownership laws with international practices regarding foreign nationals’ firearm access.
