The United Kingdom has officially removed sanctions against four Zimbabwean individuals and one entity, marking a step towards renewed engagement between the two countries. The delisted individuals include Owen Ncube, Isaac Moyo, Godwin Matanga, and Anselem Sanyatwe, along with the military-linked company Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI).
The announcement, made by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, aligns with similar recent moves by other Western powers. In February 2025, the European Union delisted its final Zimbabwean target—ZDI—though it opted to maintain the overall legal framework for sanctions. Earlier, in March 2024, the United States also rolled back several sanctions designations as part of a broader recalibration of its Zimbabwe policy.
The latest delisting is being interpreted by analysts as part of the West’s evolving approach toward Zimbabwe, with growing emphasis on diplomatic re-engagement, economic cooperation, and cautious optimism over ongoing political reforms.
One of the most high-profile individuals to be delisted is Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. Sanyatwe previously served as Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army until March 25, 2025, and before that as head of the elite Presidential Guard. His transition into civilian government followed his appointment to cabinet in April, replacing Kirsty Coventry, who stepped down after her election as President of the International Olympic Committee.
Sanyatwe’s inclusion on the former sanctions list was rooted in past allegations of human rights violations during his military tenure. However, Western officials appear to be shifting focus from punitive measures to constructive engagement with Zimbabwe’s evolving political establishment.
The removal of Owen Ncube, a former State Security Minister; Isaac Moyo, Director-General of the Central Intelligence Organisation; and Godwin Matanga, former Commissioner-General of Police, is equally notable. All three had been previously linked to state crackdowns on dissent, particularly during and after the 2018 elections.
The Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI), a state-owned arms manufacturer, had long been targeted by Western sanctions due to its links with the Zimbabwean military. Its delisting is seen as a gesture to enable better oversight and reintegration of Zimbabwe’s defence sector into international regulatory frameworks.
Zimbabwean government officials have welcomed the development, with a spokesperson stating that the move “recognizes the country’s commitment to dialogue and reform.” Critics, however, remain cautious, calling for continued vigilance over human rights and democratic processes in the country.
The UK’s decision comes amid broader efforts to reconfigure its foreign policy posture post-Brexit, particularly with African nations. While sanctions can be re-imposed if necessary, British officials say the preference is now to pursue “principled diplomacy and constructive engagement.”
