Harare – Zimbabwe finds itself among a list of nations facing potential travel restrictions to the United States under a sweeping proposal from the Trump administration to expand entry bans, according to sources familiar with the ongoing deliberations. The proposed measures, which could affect as many as 43 countries, have raised concerns about potential disruptions to trade, diplomatic relations, and personal ties.
A draft list of recommendations, crafted by diplomatic and security officials, categorises countries into a three-tier system, with Zimbabwe placed in the “yellow” category. This designation signifies that Zimbabwe has been granted a 60-day window to address specific concerns raised by the U.S. government or risk facing more stringent visa restrictions.
The proposal outlines a “red” list comprising 11 countries whose citizens would be completely barred from entering the United States. These nations include Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen.
In addition to the “red” list, an “orange” list of 10 countries, including Russia, Pakistan, Belarus, and Myanmar, would face severe visa restrictions, with business travellers potentially being the primary exception.
Zimbabwe’s inclusion in the “yellow” list, which encompasses 22 nations, means the country must take corrective action within the 60-day timeframe to avoid being moved to a more restrictive classification. The specific U.S. concerns regarding Zimbabwe relate to its ability to share traveller information, the security of its passport issuance processes, and its cooperation with the U.S. on counterterrorism and immigration enforcement. This suggests potential issues with Zimbabwe’s documentation systems and immigration protocols.
The internal discussions, spearheaded by the U.S. State Department in collaboration with intelligence agencies, are still ongoing, and sources have indicated that the final list could be subject to change before a formal announcement by the White House. Officials at various embassies and government agencies are currently reviewing the draft.
Critics of the proposed measures have voiced concerns that political or diplomatic considerations could unduly influence the final decision. They argue that the list disproportionately targets non-Western nations and could negatively impact trade and diplomatic relations.
It is worth noting that during his first term, former President Trump’s travel bans faced numerous legal challenges. However, the U.S. Supreme Court ultimately upheld a revised version that restricted entry from several majority-Muslim nations. President Joe Biden later revoked those restrictions upon assuming office in 2021, deeming them discriminatory and detrimental to America’s global reputation.
If the expanded travel bans are implemented, they could have far-reaching consequences for Zimbabweans with family, educational, and business connections to the United States. The government in Harare has yet to issue an official response to the proposal. However, analysts warn that such a move could further strain the already complex U.S.-Zimbabwe relations.
As the review process continues, it remains uncertain whether countries on the “yellow” list, including Zimbabwe, will be able to adequately address U.S. concerns within the stipulated 60-day period to avert the imposition of stricter travel limitations. The situation is being closely monitored by observers both in Zimbabwe and the United States, with many hoping for a resolution that avoids further restrictions on travel and maintains positive diplomatic ties.
