President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Sithembiso Gile Gladys Nyoni from her cabinet position with immediate effect.

The termination was announced in an official press statement signed by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr. M. Rushwaya on April 3, 2025.

According to the statement, Mnangagwa exercised his constitutional authority under “section 340, subsection (1), paragraph (f), as read with section 108, subsection (1) paragraph (a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe” to remove the minister.

Nyoni, who has served in various ministerial roles since 1995, was among the longest-serving cabinet officials in Zimbabwe’s government, having held portfolios including Women’s Affairs and Small to Medium Enterprises before her appointment to the environment ministry.

The terse announcement provided no explanation for her sudden removal, which comes amid increasing political tensions within the ruling ZANU PF party.

Political analysts have noted that Nyoni’s dismissal follows several recent high-profile government changes, including the controversial reassignment of army commander Anselem Sanyatwe to a ministerial position last week.

Government sources speaking on condition of anonymity suggested the cabinet reshuffle may be connected to factional battles between allies of Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, though this remains unconfirmed.

The President’s office has not yet announced Nyoni’s replacement, leaving questions about the future direction of Zimbabwe’s environmental policy as the country faces significant climate challenges.