By Thabisani Dube

Zimbabwe, once the “breadbasket of Southern Africa,” now faces a daunting challenge: over 7.9 million people, or 51 percent of the population, live below the poverty line, according to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency. Decades of economic downturns, high unemployment, and food insecurity have pushed many to struggle for basic needs. In a nation rich with potential and resources, the question looms: how can Zimbabwe break this cycle of poverty?

Despite improvements in certain human development indicators since 2010, extreme poverty has surged. The Zimbabwe Poverty Assessment Report—a significant study since 1996—reveals a troubling trajectory: poverty rose from 23 percent in 2010/11 to a staggering 49 percent in 2020, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet, amid these hardships lies a resilient population and fertile land—assets that, if properly managed, could transform the nation’s future.

Rev. Taylor Nyanhete, National Director of the Zimbabwe National Council for the Welfare of Children, emphasises the strong link between poverty and food insecurity. “Poverty in Zimbabwe is intrinsically linked to food insecurity, with families, especially children, bearing the brunt,” he says. “A lack of disposable income leads to poor nutrition, weakening immune systems and stunting growth—both physically and mentally.”

This cycle of malnutrition exacerbates vulnerability to diseases like cholera and diarrhea, which further impedes development. Nyanhete notes that these issues contribute to wider socio-economic challenges, most notably in education.

Chengeto Muzamba, a resident of Msasa Park in Harare, highlights the disproportionate impact of poverty on women. “Single mothers bear the brunt of poverty. Many struggle to access capital for businesses or afford daycare, forcing them into low-paying informal jobs,” she explains. “Without financial independence, they remain trapped in cycles of hardship.”

Young people, too, encounter formidable barriers. “Many have innovative ideas but lack the financial backing and policy support to turn them into viable businesses,” Muzamba adds.

Addressing these challenges, Edgar Moyo, Minister of Energy and Power Development, stresses the role of energy in economic revitalisation. “Without a stable energy sector, industrialisation and growth are limited,” he says. “Our goal is to ensure every Zimbabwean, especially in rural areas, has access to reliable electricity. Energy access is directly linked to productivity, education, and health outcomes.”

Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, outlines government efforts to combat poverty through infrastructure development. “We’ve initiated projects aimed at improving lives sustainably,” he states. He cites the reconstruction of Mbare Musika, which will accommodate over 4,000 traders. “This initiative will create sustainable livelihoods for many families, including farmers, by fostering a supportive trading environment.”

Agriculture, Zimbabwe’s largest employer, is critical for recovery. However, productivity has plummeted due to erratic policies, limited financing, and climate change. Once a regional food supplier, Zimbabwe now imports over $800 million worth of food annually, according to a 2023 World Bank report.

Benson Moyo, a farmer from Chiredzi, emphasises modernising agriculture for sustainability. “We need consistent access to irrigation, affordable seeds, and mechanisation. If the government focuses on supporting small-scale farmers, we can revive the agricultural sector.”

With transparent, corruption-free agricultural policies, Zimbabwe could enhance productivity. Commercialising small-scale farming through cooperatives could improve market access for even the smallest farmers.

The decline of Zimbabwe’s industries has left cities like Bulawayo resembling ghost towns. Manufacturing closures have resulted in widespread job losses. However, reviving these industries is feasible with tax incentives, affordable electricity, and access to credit, along with expanded vocational education to equip youth with necessary skills.

Zimbabwe’s wealth in gold, diamonds, lithium, and platinum remains largely untapped due to corruption. “Strict transparency in mining contracts and fair revenue-sharing can turn these resources into national assets,” advocates Dr. Witness Chikoko, a social worker and academic at the University of Zimbabwe.

“Education is the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty in Zimbabwe,” he adds. “When people acquire knowledge and skills, they can secure better jobs, start businesses, and make informed decisions that positively impact their lives.”

Alexio Mudzengeerere, founder of the Grassroots Flea Markets and Vendors Organisation, emphasises supporting small businesses. “For many Zimbabweans, the informal sector is their lifeline. Access to affordable loans and designated trading spaces can empower vendors and entrepreneurs.”

Ending poverty in Zimbabwe is an achievable goal that requires political will, economic transformation, and citizen participation. The nation possesses the resources, talent, and potential for renewal, but it must prioritise sound governance, industrial growth, agricultural reform, and social investments, including healthcare.

If leaders, businesses, and citizens unite to demand and implement these changes, Zimbabwe can rise again—from crisis to prosperity.