Zimbabwe: Colonial Traces Still Visible

AS Zimbabwe celebrates its 22nd independence anniversary on Thursday, many people are reflecting on how far they have gone in shaking off the shackles of colonialism. Drifting back 22 years or so to the colonial period is very easy after visiting some of the country's institutions. Bow-tied waiters still serve afternoon tea from ageing silver teapots engraved with the initials of King George VI of England at some institutions. Blacks are generally not welcome in such institutions. The racism is subtle with high fees and other demands designed to keep the doors firmly shut to black patrons.