Inflation in Zimbabwe is like that one cousin who always shows up uninvited loud, unpredictable, and draining your pockets. Prices rise overnight, salaries remain the same, and by the time you have saved enough for something, it has doubled in price.
But here's the thing: you don't have to be a victim.
If youre tired of watching your money lose value faster than a ZESA token, read on. This is your no-BS guide to surviving (and even winning) in Zimbabwe's economy right now.
1. Keep Your Money in USD (Or Something That Holds Value)
The Zim dollar is unreliable, and if youre keeping all your savings in RTGS, you're basically lighting your money on fire. Instead:
Convert your money into USD as soon as you get paid. Whether its cash, USD bank accounts, or mobile wallets that allow USD, keep your funds in a currency that doesn't evaporate overnight.
Consider other stores of value like gold coins, stable coins (like USDT), or even assets that appreciate, such as land or livestock.
Pro Tip: If you're earning in RTGS, set up a side hustle that brings in USD. The best way to fight inflation is to earn in a stable currency.
2. Buy in Bulk & Stock Up on Essentials
One rule of Zimbabwean inflation: The price of bread will never be cheaper next month.
✅ Stock up on non-perishables like mealie meal, rice, sugar, cooking oil, and toiletries. Prices climb fast, so bulk-buying saves you money in the long run.
Buy USD products when possible. Some wholesalers and retailers sell goods priced in USD, which are often more stable than RTGS prices.
Pro Tip: Team up with friends or family to buy in bulk and split costs.
3. Avoid Keeping Money in the Bank (Unless Its USD)
Zimbabwean banks are notorious for eroding savings. With withdrawal limits, surprise policy changes, and conversion losses, keeping large sums in an RTGS account is financial suicide.
Withdraw and store value elsewhere â€" whether its USD, gold coins, or other assets that wont lose value overnight.
If you must use a bank, go for USD accounts that allow you to keep and withdraw actual US dollars.
Pro Tip: Don't wait for the government to announce a new policy before moving your money by then, its already too late.
4. Invest in Something That Pays You Back
Inflation punishes those who only consume and rewards those who invest. Instead of keeping your money idle, put it in something that generates returns:
Small businesses & side hustles
Import goods, offer services, or start something with low capital. USD side hustles are gold right now.
Real estate
If you can buy a piece of land or a house (even through partnerships), do it. Property often outpaces inflation.
Livestock & Agriculture
Cattle, chickens, goats, or even vegetable farming can be surprisingly profitable in this economy.
Pro Tip: If youre scared of starting a business, begin with something small and scale up as you learn.
5. Use Inflation to Your Advantage
Most people suffer under inflation, but a few make money from it. How?
Borrow in RTGS, Invest in USD: If you take a loan in RTGS and use it to buy USD or assets that appreciate, you will repay your debt in a weaker currency.
Buy now, pay later: If you know prices will rise soon, buy goods on credit and pay later when your money is worth less.
Hold appreciating assets: Anything that gains value over time (real estate, forex, livestock, or even cars) helps protect your money from losing its worth.
Pro Tip: The rich always transfer wealth into assets do the same at your level.
6. Think Like an Entrepreneur, Not Just a Consumer
If you rely only on a salary, inflation will destroy your financial future. The smartest Zimbabweans right now are those finding ways to make money on their own.
Monetize a skill Can you bake? Fix cars? Cut hair? Teach something online? Sell that skill!
E-commerce & Importing â€" Buy goods abroad and sell locally at a profit. Think electronics, clothes, or accessories.
Get into forex & crypto trading (carefully!) " If you understand trading, this can be a way to make USD without leaving home.
Pro Tip: Look at what people desperately need and find a way to provide it profitably.
Final Thought: The Government Wont Save You. You Have to Adapt
Inflation in Zimbabwe isnt going away anytime soon. The best way to beat it? Play smarter than the system.
Store value in USD and assets.
Buy in bulk before prices rise.
Invest in something that makes money.
Use inflation to your advantage instead of being its victim.
The people who survive economic chaos aren't the ones who complain the loudest. They are the ones who adapt the fastest.
What are you doing to protect your money from inflation? Drop a comment below!
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