By Tafadzwa Chigandiwa
While the world battles with effects of Covid-19 pandemic, some have lost their loved ones, others laid off from their jobs the few employed Bulawayo residents have not been spared as they still struggle to earn a decent living.
In an interview with Bustop TV, several employees said being employed was no different from unpaid community service.
They said they are only working to satisfy their employers needs and that of President Mnangwagwa’s administration who are more likely to benefit from their hard work.
“Going to work is now similar to a community service, though not under any criminal penalty or any community fundraising.
“I believe that we are working for President Munangagwa and his government after that they loot from us, our leaders seem to be reluctant on assisting us during this pandemic,” said one Blessing Mpofu.
Despite earning salaries they can barely afford basic commodities.
Rentals, health care and groceries are pegged in foreign currency which is not in their reach and transport woes persist even after the introduction of Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses.
“Our hard earned salaries are not enough to meet our basic needs, that is to pay for our rent, landlords now require us to pay in foreign currency, we cannot afford enough transport and lunch money.
“Although the government introduced ZUPCO buses and kombis they now range from 16 Bond notes to and from whilst others areas require 32 Bond notes, that by 30days” said Pamela Moyo.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s economic crisis is deepening with government struggling to control hyperinflation.
The situation has been worsened by Covid-19 lockdown regulations meant to stop the spread of the corona virus. Although the regulations advised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) help limit Covid-19 infections they have threatened the livelihoods of the majority of citizens who are informally employed.
