Natalie Nyathi
Recent reports, including the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index 2025, have ranked Zimbabwe as one of the hardest countries to live in, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by its people. This situation reflects a mix of economic, social, and infrastructure issues that affect the daily lives of millions. Although the World Bank expects the economy to grow by about 6% in 2025, driven by recovery from drought and increased mining, many Zimbabweans still face tough realities every day.
The EIU’s Global Livability Index assesses cities based on over 30 factors in five main areas: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. A low score indicates serious challenges in these areas, making life difficult for residents.
Several factors contribute to Zimbabwe’s low ranking. Economic instability is a major concern. High inflation, despite the introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold currency in 2024, continues to hurt the purchasing power of citizens, making basic goods hard to afford. The central bank also devalued this new currency significantly. High unemployment and limited access to essential goods add to the economic strain. While the IMF has noted some stability, challenges remain.
Infrastructure issues are also significant. Many parts of Harare face decaying infrastructure. Reports indicate that many traffic lights and streetlights are not working. Water shortages are common, and many people rely on unsafe sources for drinking water, leading to health risks. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with its growing population.
Social challenges further impact quality of life. Access to good healthcare and education is limited. Although life expectancy has improved, serious health issues persist. Many children face problems like hunger and lack of educational opportunities. Political and governance issues also play a role. A history of political instability and corruption affects the environment, with ongoing concerns over human rights and freedoms.
Zimbabwe’s struggles are not unique in Africa. Other cities, like Lagos and Port Harcourt in Nigeria, face similar challenges with rapid population growth and inadequate healthcare. However, some cities are finding ways to address these issues. For example, Nairobi has created dedicated bus lanes to ease traffic, while other cities focus on mixed-use developments and better infrastructure partnerships.
Addressing Zimbabwe’s challenges requires a practical approach. Strategies to stabilize the economy, reduce unemployment, and ease poverty are essential. Collaborating with international partners for investment while ensuring transparency is important. Localizing mineral processing can also keep jobs and value within the country.
Investing in water, power, transportation, and communications infrastructure is vital for improving living conditions and supporting growth. Public-private partnerships can help fund and manage these projects. Improving healthcare and education is crucial for long-term stability, as is addressing the reasons behind migration and brain drain.
Promoting transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights is necessary for building a stable society. Tackling corruption and ensuring fair elections can help build trust in the government.