The ruling Zanu PF has dismissed allegations by economist Eddie Cross that over 85,000 Chinese nationals are operating in Zimbabwe and looting billions of dollars, labeling his claims as baseless and malicious.
The ruling party’s Director for Information Farai Marapira, strongly defended the government’s open-door investment policy, accusing Cross of spreading falsehoods and fostering xenophobic sentiments.
Speaking to the press, Marapira described Cross’s recent blog post as an unsubstantiated attack on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s economic vision.
“We have only 25,000 Chinese nationals here on valid visas working in the mining sector, not the 85,000 falsely claimed by Cross,” said Marapira. He added that these workers are part of Zimbabwe’s broader strategy to attract global investors and develop the country’s natural resources for mutual benefit.
Marapira further criticized Cross for his claims that billions of dollars in natural resources were being plundered by Chinese entities without benefiting locals.
“Eddie Cross cannot substantiate his $30 billion claim on diamonds or his ranking of Zimbabwe’s chrome deposits. His article reflects bar talk, not educated economic analysis,” Marapira said.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusivity, Marapira emphasized, “Zimbabwe is open for business. We welcome all who want to help us develop our country. These malicious attacks are attempts to undermine our progress as a nation.”
