By Staff Reporter
HARARE – Zimbabwe has mourned the sudden death of European Union Ambassador Katrin Hagemann, saying her passing is a loss not only to the European Union and her loved ones, but to Zimbabwe and its relationship with the European bloc.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade said it had learnt with “deep sadness” of Hagemann’s death in Harare on Sept. 3, barely nine months after she assumed office as the EU’s ambassador to Zimbabwe.
In its first official tribute, the ministry placed particular emphasis on Hagemann’s contribution to bilateral engagement, saying she had demonstrated a commitment to the “continued strengthening of relations between Zimbabwe and the European Union.”
The ministry described her departure as an “untimely” loss “not only to her loved ones and the European Union, but to the Republic of Zimbabwe”, a recognition of the diplomatic value Harare attached to her work during a tenure that had only just begun.
Hagemann, 53, presented her credentials to President Emmerson Mnangagwa in December, taking charge of the EU’s diplomatic mission at a period of renewed engagement between Zimbabwe and European partners on economic reform, trade and governance.
Her posting had placed her at the heart of a relationship that has evolved through periods of political tension and efforts in recent years to restore sustained dialogue between Harare and Brussels.
Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs Ministry extended its condolences to Hagemann’s family, friends, and colleagues at the EU Delegation, describing her death as a loss felt across the diplomatic relationship she had been appointed to represent.
“The Ministry extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues at the European Union Delegation,” it said.
Diplomatic sources said Hagemann had felt unwell after breakfast Thursday and was later found unresponsive by her driver at her Harare residence. The circumstances surrounding her death were not immediately clear.
Hagemann’s diplomatic assignment ended before she had completed a year in office, but Zimbabwe’s official tribute made clear the regard in which her engagement had come to be held.
“May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the ministry said
