Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed the presidency of Zimbabwe in 2017 following the resignation of Robert Mugabe. His career has spanned decades of national political activity, from his early involvement in anti-colonial movements in the 1960s to his leadership within the ZANU–PF party and his subsequent tenure as the nation's head of state.
Early Activism and Education
Born in 1942 in Zvishavane, Mnangagwa moved to Northern Rhodesia in 1955 due to his family's political activism. His education included time at David Kaunda Technical High School and the University of Zambia, where he studied from 1973 to 1974. He later pursued further studies through the University of London. These formative years provided the foundation for his entry into anti-colonial politics.
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Following Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, Mnangagwa entered the national government. He served as the Minister of State for National Security in the President's Office from 1980 until 1988. Over the following decades, he held various portfolios, including Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities from 2005 to 2009 and Minister of Defence from 2009 to 2013.
Legislative and Executive Leadership
Mnangagwa played an active role in the national assembly, serving as its Speaker from 2000 to 2005. Later, as the Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs from 2013 to 2017, he operated at the highest levels of the Zimbabwean government. In 2014, he was appointed as Vice President, a position he held until his transition to the presidency in 2017.
Fast facts
- Born: 1942, Zvishavane
- Citizenship: Zimbabwe
- Education: David Kaunda Technical High School, University of Zambia, University of London
- Speaker of the National Assembly: 2000-2005
- Minister of Defence: 2009-2013
- Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs: 2013-2017
- President of Zimbabwe: 2017-present
- Time 100 Honoree: 2018
Questions readers ask
What ministerial roles did Emmerson Mnangagwa hold before becoming president?
He served as Minister of State for National Security, Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs.
Where did Emmerson Mnangagwa receive his education?
He attended David Kaunda Technical High School, the University of Zambia, and the University of London.
Achievements
- Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities (2005–2009)
- President of Zimbabwe (from 2017)
- Finance Minister (1995–1996)
- Vice President of Zimbabwe (2014–2017)
- Educated at University of London and University of Zambia
