The problem is multidimensional and is characterised by a limited access to employment opportunities and income, inadequate and insecure housing services leading to overcrowding, crime and violence and limited access to health and a clean environment.
This situation has been exacerbated by the rural-urban migration where the majority of people left the rural areas with the hope of finding a better standard of living and job opportunities in urban areas. The downsizing of the Zimbabwe economy has not made these dreams come true for many.
In their survey, PRFT mentioned Basic Needs Basket values in Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare which are $560, $449, and $446 respectively per household. This is beyond the reach of the majority. Quality education has become an unattainable luxury for the majority. In Mutare, 48% of people did not attend high school. They feel education is no longer beneficial to their livelihoods. Therefore a high number of youths spend their time on the streets.
Takudzwa Mawire (21), a Midlands State University student, said the reality of getting a degree with no guarantee of finding a job was very difficult to manage.
“Going to university these days is like flushing money down the drain because nothing will happen after college unless there is a serious turn around in the economy,” Mawire said.
According to Judith Kaulem, PRFT Executive Director, rural and urban needs vary considerably but this does not necessarily make the impact of poverty on the affected individuals any different.
In her presentation at a media briefing recently, she noted that this ‘poverty’ mania has exposed individuals to increased vulnerability like exploitation and abuse. “PRFT survey also noted that poverty in urban areas mostly affects child and elderly-headed households alongside people with HIV and AIDS and people living with disabilities,” said Kaulem.
The country is reeling with an unemployment rate of over 80%. Either industry has to be resuscitated and absorb the idle workforce or policies have to be put in place that support the informal sector.
Regis Chingawo, the National Coordinator of the Coalition Against Corruption, attributed the high numbers of urban poverty to the failure by the government to distribute national resources.
“In Zimbabwe we have situations were there are a few individuals in authority who are benefiting from the country’s vast mineral wealth. For instance, diamond proceeds are being looted and not remitted to the treasury. If the resources were being properly utilized, poverty would be a thing of the past,” said Chingawo.
Post published in: News