By ETimes
HARARE – Zimbabwe is experiencing a worrying surge in severe lived poverty, according to recent findings from Afrobarometer’s latest report. The data reveals that many Zimbabweans are increasingly struggling to access basic necessities such as food, clean water, medical care, and cash income. The findings highlight the growing economic distress that has gripped the nation, reversing previous gains in poverty reduction.
A Decade of Economic Decline
Between 2005 and 2015, Zimbabwe, along with several other African nations, recorded a decline in poverty levels due to economic growth and improved infrastructure. However, economic stagnation in the mid-2010s, coupled with global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical disruptions, has led to a sharp rise in poverty rates. According to the report, Zimbabwe ranks among the countries with the highest increase in severe lived poverty between 2014 and 2023.
Lived Poverty Index (LPI) Trends
Afrobarometer’s Lived Poverty Index (LPI) measures how often individuals go without basic necessities. The latest survey results show that Zimbabwe has witnessed a significant rise in its LPI score, indicating increased material deprivation. Zimbabweans report frequent shortages of essential items, with a significant portion of the population going without food, clean water, and medical care multiple times a year.
A particularly concerning statistic is the increasing number of people lacking a cash income. The report states that eight in ten Africans went without a cash income at least once in the past year, and in Zimbabwe, the situation is even more dire. The lack of financial stability makes it difficult for households to afford even the most basic goods and services, exacerbating the cycle of poverty.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to Zimbabwe’s worsening economic conditions. Political instability, declining foreign investment, rising inflation, and corruption have played major roles in worsening poverty levels. The report also suggests that while political freedoms have declined in many African nations, it is corruption rather than governance structures that have the strongest link to increased lived poverty. Zimbabwe’s high levels of corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies continue to hinder economic progress and social welfare.
Urgent Need for Policy Interventions
The rise in severe lived poverty in Zimbabwe underscores the urgent need for policy reforms. Government-led initiatives to curb inflation, attract investment, and create employment opportunities are crucial in reversing the current trend. Additionally, transparency in governance and stronger anti-corruption measures can play a key role in ensuring that public resources are utilized effectively for economic recovery and poverty alleviation.
International support and sustainable development programs may also help alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by Zimbabwean households. Investment in infrastructure, social welfare programs, and job creation strategies could provide much-needed relief to millions of Zimbabweans living in dire economic conditions.
Our thoughts: The findings from Afrobarometer paint a bleak picture of Zimbabwe’s economic state, with severe lived poverty reaching alarming levels. Without immediate intervention, the nation risks further economic decline and increased suffering for its people. The government, civil society, and international partners must act swiftly to address the root causes of poverty and work toward sustainable solutions for economic stability and growth.