Poland in South Africa

Diplomatic relations between both countries were established in 1981. In the period of 1985-2008, the Polish Embassy operated in Harare. From January 2009, all the matters related to Polish - Zimbabwean relations are within the competence of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria.  At the beginning of diplomatic relations between both countries, the Ambassadors of Zimbabwe based in Moscow were accredited to Poland,  while in 2008 the changes were adopted and from then the Ambassador of Zimbabwe residing in Berlin were accredited to Poland. The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Harare, headed by honorary consul Krystyna Grabowska, began to operate on 21 November 2011. Bilateral relations are correct but not intense. In the 1990s, several ministerial visits of ministries of health, foreign trade, internal affairs and construction took place. The subject of the arrangements was mainly the supply of medicines and medical equipment  from Poland, cooperation in the field of training Zimbabwean staff and the export of Ursus tractors and road machines from Stalowa Wola.

As in the previous years, the continuing socio-political crisis and the difficult economic situation of Zimbabwe had a negative impact on the development of Zimbabwe's political and economic cooperation with foreign countries, including Poland. Among the most important factors seriously limiting the possibilities of mutual trade turnover were: the unfavourable business climate for potential investors and enterprises from Europe, unrealistic procedures and regulations regarding price control, poor knowledge of local conditions among Polish business entities, poor condition of telecommunications and transport infrastructure as well as inefficient and widespread corruption at all levels of state administration.

Every year, a dozen or so students from Zimbabwe receive scholarships at Polish Universities or are directed to internships and apprenticeships in Poland.  Polish citizens may study at the Universities of Zimbabwe.  There is also a possibility to recognize education obtained in Polish academic institutions. Polish universities offer a number of interesting programs for foreign students on paid studies.