Catherwood LibraryILR School

A two-day strike called by Zimbabwe's trade unions in protest against the country's worsening economic crisis has been poorly observed on its first day. The capital was slightly quieter than usual, but many shops and offices were open in the capital, Harare. Correspondents say few people can afford to lose even a day's pay. President Robert Mugabe had condemned the stoppage as part of a plot by the opposition to oust him and promised tough action against any open protests. More than 80% of Zimbabweans live in poverty and inflation is running at more than 1,700% - the highest in the world.