VOA’s Zimbawean service provided crucial coverage of the coup against Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.

BBG technicians reprogrammed Botswana shortwave transmitters to carry special VOA broadcasts in Shona and Ndebele throughout the night, including live coverage of General Sibusiso Moyo announcing the takeover from state-run broadcaster ZBC. Expanded programming continued in the uncertain days that followed, including Parliament Speaker Jacob Mudenda ultimately reading President Mugabe’s letter of resignation.

Comments on VOA Facebook Live expressed great appreciation for and trust in VOA’s reporting.

“We appreciate your effort in broadcasting reliable information without fear or favour,” wrote Kudzai Mwarotah. “VOA, you have stood with us when all we could get in Zimbabwe were biased broadcasters,” wrote Facebook Live viewer Target Murima. “Thank you for not taking sides.”