ZICOSU

The Zimbabwe Congress of Students Union (ZICOSU) is a prominent student organization in Zimbabwe. It is known as one of the largest and most influential student movements in the country.

Background

ZICOSU was formed in 2002 by individuals like Eureka Ndlovhu, Tafadzwa Mugwadi, Tonderai Chidawo, and others. They believed that the existing student organization, ZINASU (Zimbabwe National Students Union), had strayed from its original purpose of advocating for students. ZINASU was accused of prioritizing personal interests, including the influence of NGOs and accepting bribes. ZICOSU aimed to restore honest representation and defend the collective interests of students, inspired by influential student leaders of the past.^[1]
However, there are claims that ZANU PF hijacked ZICOSU after its formation.

Involvement in Politics

Despite initially attempting to distance itself from the ZANU PF party in 2016, the Zimbabwe Congress of Students Union (ZICOSU) remains connected to the party.^[2]
This is because political parties often regain control of student unions by offering money or placing their activists in leadership positions. Unfortunately, due to the financial struggles faced by students in Zimbabwe, party leaders exploit this vulnerability and use financial incentives to influence student leaders. As a result, ZICOSU leaders have consistently supported and endorsed the ZANU PF government and its policies. Some former leaders of ZICOSU, like Takudzwa Gambiza, have even been given government positions after leaving the union.