Inflation in Zimbabwe is rising fast, making everyday essentials harder to afford. Discover how Zimbabweans are coping with high prices, from side hustles to bulk buying. Read more!
The Cost of Living Nightmare in Zimbabwe
A few years ago, a loaf of bread in Zimbabwe cost less than a dollar. Today, depending on where you buy it, that same loaf can cost anywhere from $1.50 to $3. The price of mealie meal, cooking oil, and even transport fares has skyrocketed, leaving many Zimbabweans struggling to afford the basics.
Inflation is not just a statistic in Zimbabwe—it's a daily battle for survival. The rising cost of living has forced families to make tough decisions: Do we buy food or pay school fees? Do we stock up on groceries now, or wait and risk higher prices next week?
In this article, we explore how Zimbabweans are coping with inflation, the creative survival tactics they are using, and expert tips to stretch every dollar.
A Nation of Hustlers: How Zimbabweans Are Adapting to Inflation
1. Bulk Buying and Stockpiling Essentials
Many Zimbabweans have turned to bulk buying as a way to beat inflation. When people receive their salaries or make a big sale, they immediately rush to wholesalers like Mahomed Mussa or OK Zimbabwe to buy in bulk.
"I don't wait for prices to go up," says Tendai, a mother of three from Harare. "The moment I get money, I buy mealie meal, sugar, and cooking oil for at least two months. If I delay, the price might double."
However, bulk buying is not an option for everyone, especially those who earn in RTGS, as the value of their money drops quickly.
2. The Rise of Informal Trading
With formal jobs paying too little, many Zimbabweans are now cross-border traders or vendors selling everything from clothing to groceries. The streets of Harare, Bulawayo, and other cities are full of roadside stalls selling vegetables, airtime, and second-hand clothes.
Farai, a recent university graduate, explains:
"I used to look for a job in my field, but the salaries were too low. Now I bring clothes from South Africa and sell them on WhatsApp. It's not what I planned, but it pays better."
Many are also engaging in "tuckshop" businesses—converting a small room in their home into a mini-store selling basic groceries at slightly lower prices than big supermarkets.
3. Switching to Cheaper Local Alternatives
As imported goods become more expensive, Zimbabweans are turning to locally produced alternatives. Instead of expensive brands, more people are choosing locally made cooking oil, soap, and cereals.
"I used to buy imported soap for my family, but now I use a Zimbabwean brand. It's cheaper, and honestly, it's just as good," says Linda, a resident of Glen View.
Farmers are also seeing an increase in demand for homegrown vegetables and meat, as people avoid expensive supermarket prices.
4. The USD vs RTGS Dilemma
One of the biggest challenges Zimbabweans face is the currency crisis. Most people earn in RTGS (Zimbabwean dollars), but almost everything is priced in USD. This means that salaries lose value quickly, forcing people to rush and convert their money before it depreciates further.
"Every time I get paid, I buy US dollars first," says Tafadzwa, a security guard in Harare. "If I keep RTGS for too long, I will struggle to buy food later."
Money changers (forex dealers) have become an essential part of Zimbabwe's economy, with people lining up to change their earnings into a more stable currency.
Expert Tips to Survive Zimbabwe's Inflation
✔ Diversify Your Income – If possible, start a side hustle to supplement your main income. Even small ventures like selling airtime, vegetables, or clothes can make a big difference.
✔ Buy in Bulk – If you have the means, stock up on essentials before prices go up.
✔ Use USD Where Possible – If you earn in RTGS, convert to USD as soon as you get paid to avoid losing value.
✔ Support Local Products – Locally made goods are often cheaper and just as good as imports.
✔ Join Savings Groups (Maround or Stokvels) – Many Zimbabweans are joining community savings groups to help each other afford big purchases.
The Struggle Continues, but So Does Resilience
Zimbabwe's rising cost of living is a harsh reality, but if there's one thing Zimbabweans are known for, it's resilience. People are finding creative ways to survive, from running side hustles to stockpiling goods and embracing local alternatives.
The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Zimbabweans will always find a way to adapt and push forward.
What are your inflation survival tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
No comments:
Post a Comment