David,

Please read this with an open mind. This is not a political post this, I just want to paint the tragic picture first before I get to my question.

I live in South Africa. One of our Northern neighbors is Zimbabwe. The country's in total shambles due to a tyrannical oppressor who's stolen elections time after time. The country's got the world's highest inflation rate and its currency's dropped 3 zeros twice already. Needless to say, the Zim Dollar is probably the world's most worthless currency ever!

Being in SA, we experience all the tragedies happening over there because most of their citizens have hopped the border already. This year, the country's reached a breakthrough with an inspiring new leader refusing to stand down to Mugabe. We all anticipate the emancipation and freedom of the people of Zimbabwe soon. The EU and the US have stepped up sanctions against the evil ruler and this has forced him into negotiations with his challenger. Right now, our country (being the reigonal peace-broker and source of stability, it is) is trying to cut a deal and the two opposing camps are in discussions. (Thank heavens!)

Now, I see a bright future for Zimbabwe one of these days. The people will be free and the sanctions will be lifted. Farmers will be allowed back onto the lands and the murders will stop. It's going to be the land of milk and honey once more.

Zimbabwe is rich in resources, from water to gold to platinum to coal to copper and diamonds and everything else. The country used to have a lot of game (until the hungry people were forced into poaching just to survive.) The country's agricultural resources meant once that it was called the bread-basket of Southern Africa, above South Africa itself.

With everything finally lining up for the country and its people, the currency is definitely set for a recovery soon. Every hint of democracy and peace without Mugabe makes most of the world rejoice.

Seeing that the currency is in such a bad state, it can only get better from here, once the new regime has been installed and that's when I want to be there! I know it will get better, I know the country will prosper again, I'm sure of it. Even the US & the UK have pledge billions (yes, that's BILLIONS) towards a turn-around package if only the mess gets sorted out. The mining companies are literally lining up, ready to go. Anglo-American, De Beers, BHP Billiton, you name it. They're all here in SA getting ready for the rush!

Now, most people/companies etc. forbid Zimbabweans to do business with themselves, just try sign up at FXCM for example and click on the foreigners link. It's got a list of countries barred. Zim is one of them. Does this mean one cannot trade its currency either? If not, where can I go to do it the moment the champagne corks pop?

I hope I didn't spook anyone with the realities of Africa. As they say, Africa's a great place, just steer clear of the potholes. Also please do not confuse South Africa with Zimbabwe! We're like South Korea and North Korea - neighbors, yet worlds apart.

Kind Regards,
Euan.