In summary, a novel system for H2 activation using a zinc anilide complex has been demonstrated, where dihydrogen is split across a Zn-N bond to yield a reactive zinc hydride species. This observation has been supported by a detailed mechanistic investigation using a combined experimental and computational approach. Molecular orbital analysis allows us to visualize the synergic donor-acceptor interactions that leads to this activation event. Additionally, we have investigated the scope of direct hydrozincation using a terminal zinc hydride species and probed the selectivity of this process. Through this mechanistic understanding, we were able to rationally design a system capable of semihydrogenation of alkynes. This system was shown to be effective for the highly Z-selective semihydrogenation of a range of alkynes, at moderate temperature and pressure. This system represents a rare post-transition metal alternative for semi-hydrogenation catalysis. This work introduces a novel solution to the challenge of dihydrogen activation and significantly broadens the remit of zinc and posttransition metal catalysis.