President Mnangagwa Reassigns Three Cabinet Ministers in Strategic Reshuffle

Harare - Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday February 11, reshuffled his cabinet, reassigning three senior Ministers with immediate effect in a move announced by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya.

The changes, made under Section 104 (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, were published in an official statement yesterday.

The shake‑up sees Dr. Jenfan Muswere moved from the influential Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services to become Minister of Skills Audit and Development.

Professor Paul Mavima, previously at Skills Audit, has been reassigned to the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, while Dr. Zhemu Soda takes over the Information portfolio. 

“In terms of Section 104, subsection (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, His Excellency the President, Cde Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, has re‑assigned the under‑listed Ministers as follows…,” Rushwaya said in the statement, listing the new assignments. 

Dr. Muswere, a member of parliament for Makoni West and a longstanding figure in President Mnangagwa’s administration, had served as Information Minister since 2023 before Thursday’s change. 

His new portfolio, the Ministry of Skills Audit and Development, is focused on evaluating and aligning the nation’s workforce competencies with long‑term economic goals.

The Ministry, established in 2023, plays a role in Zimbabwe’s plans to develop a competitive national skills base under Vision 2030. 

Professor Mavima, who represents Gokwe‑Sengwa and holds a Doctorate in Public Administration from Florida State University, has previously held multiple cabinet posts, including Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare and Primary and Secondary Education. 

Taking the housing portfolio, Mavima inherits responsibility for national housing policy at a time when Zimbabwe is facing chronic shortages in affordable accommodation.

Dr. Zhemu Soda, who represents Muzarabani North and had most recently been Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, will now oversee state media and official government communications.

Soda’s previous Ministerial roles include Energy and Mines. 

Analysts say the reshuffle places President Emmerson Mnangagwa's trusted allies in key positions ahead of heightened scrutiny over Zimbabwe’s economic performance and governance.

The Information Ministry, in particular, is seen as central to the government’s narrative management.

The Ministers are expected to assume their new duties immediately as the administration seeks to balance internal party dynamics with policy delivery.