Survive and Succeed

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  • University of Zimbabwe 2026: Navigating the New Career Guidance Campaigns

    The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has officially launched its 2026 career guidance and awareness campaigns, and the message is clear: **Education must lead to transformation.**

    As the August 2026 intake approaches, prospective students and their parents are being urged to look beyond traditional degree titles and focus on programs that align with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy (NDS1).

    What’s New in 2026?

    This year, the UZ is rolling out a more interactive and decentralized guidance model.

    • **Decentralized Sessions**: Guidance is no longer confined to the main campus. Teams are visiting various regions to ensure that even students in remote areas have access to the latest information.
    • * **Video-First Approach**: Applicants are now required to review official career guidance videos before finalizing their program choices. This ensures that every student understands the practical applications of their chosen field.

    Priority Sectors for 2026

    The campaigns are highlighting several “high-impact” sectors where the demand for skilled professionals is outstripping supply:

    1. **Digital Transformation & Tech**: With the rise of the digital economy, programs in cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering are being heavily promoted.
    2. 2. **Sustainable Agriculture**: Given the record-breaking tobacco and blueberry seasons, there is a massive need for experts in ag-tech, irrigation management, and value-chain logistics.
    3. 3. **Green Energy**: As Zimbabwe pivots toward renewable energy, engineering programs focused on solar and hydro-power are key.
    4. 4. **Health Sciences**: Beyond traditional medicine, there is a focus on public health and medical technology.

    Tips for Prospective Students

    • **Research Before You Register**: Don’t just pick a program because it sounds prestigious. Use the UZ’s online resources to see what the day-to-day work in that field actually looks like.
    • * **Align with Your Passion**: While market demand is important, you are more likely to “survive and succeed” if you are genuinely interested in the subject matter.
    • * **Consider the “World After University”**: The UZ campaigns emphasize that a degree is just the beginning. Look for programs that offer internships, industry partnerships, and entrepreneurial training.

    Final Thoughts

    The 2026 career guidance campaigns are a fantastic resource for anyone looking to make an informed decision about their future. By choosing a path that is both personally fulfilling and economically relevant, you are setting yourself up for long-term success in Zimbabwe.

    For more updates on university admissions and career tips, keep following *Survive and Succeed*!

  • Beyond the Farm: Business Opportunities in Zimbabwe’s Record 2026 Tobacco Season

    Zimbabwe’s 2026 tobacco marketing season has officially opened, and the numbers are staggering. With a forecast harvest of over **300 million kg**, this season is set to be one of the most productive in the country’s history. While the focus is often on the farmers, a harvest of this scale creates a massive ripple effect across the entire economy.

    If you aren’t a farmer, there are still numerous ways to “survive and succeed” by tapping into the tobacco value chain.

    1. Logistics and Transportation

    Moving 300 million kg of tobacco from farms to auction floors in Harare requires a massive fleet.

    • **Opportunity**: Small truck owners can provide “last-mile” transport services for small-scale farmers in regions like Mashonaland West and Central.
    • * **Tip**: Ensure your vehicle is reliable and you have the necessary transit permits to avoid delays at checkpoints.

    2. FinTech and Payment Solutions

    A major breakthrough this season is the goal to get farmers paid within **30 minutes** of a sale.

    • **Opportunity**: There is a growing demand for mobile money agents and digital wallet services at or near auction floors.
    • * **Tip**: Providing secure, fast cash-out services or digital payment integration for local merchants near the floors is a high-traffic business model during the peak season.

    3. AgTech and Data Services

    With the “Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan II” in full swing, data is becoming as valuable as the leaf itself.

    • **Opportunity**: Developing or distributing simple mobile tools that help farmers track their yields, expenses, and market prices.
    • * **Tip**: Focus on offline-first capabilities, as many farming areas have intermittent internet connectivity.

    4. Supply Chain Services

    Farmers receiving large payouts will be looking to reinvest in their next crop or improve their homesteads.

    • **Opportunity**: Setting up temporary retail hubs near auction floors for solar equipment, irrigation tools, and construction materials.
    • * **Tip**: “Pop-up” shops that offer delivery services back to the farming communities are particularly successful.

    The Bottom Line

    The 2026 tobacco season is a testament to the resilience of Zimbabwean agriculture. By looking beyond the farm and identifying the bottlenecks in the supply chain, entrepreneurs can find profitable niches that support the country’s growth.

    Stay tuned to *Survive and Succeed* for more deep dives into Zimbabwe’s high-growth sectors!

  • Lowering Your Startup Costs: A Guide to the New 2026 Model Fees By-Laws

    Starting a business in Zimbabwe just became more affordable. The government has introduced the **Model Fees By-Laws, 2026** (Statutory Instrument 41 of 2026), aimed at standardizing and reducing the fees local authorities can charge.

    What Has Changed?

    For years, entrepreneurs have struggled with inconsistent and often excessive municipal levies. The new regulations provide a non-binding but influential framework to cap these costs, making it easier for SMEs to plan their finances.

    Key Fee Reductions:

    • **General Business Licenses**: Most licenses for bakeries, butcheries, restaurants, and wholesale operations are now capped at **US$500 per year**.
    • * **Health & Safety**: Health report fees are capped at **US$100**, and fire compliance certificates at **US$500**.
    • * **Hospitality Sector**: Hotels have seen a **50% reduction** in annual fees, with a maximum cap of US$1,725. Lodges and guest houses also benefit from significant caps.
    • * **Transport & Logistics**: Intra-city route authorities are now just **US$20 annually**, and tow-away charges have been halved.

    Why This Matters for You:

    Lowering the barrier to entry means more Zimbabweans can formalize their businesses. Reduced compliance costs allow you to reinvest more capital into your core operations, whether you’re starting a small takeaway or a logistics company.

    Action Steps for Entrepreneurs:

    1. **Check Your Local Council**: While the framework is a national guideline, verify how your specific local authority is implementing these caps.
    2. 2. **Formalize Your Business**: If you’ve been operating informally due to high costs, now is the time to register and benefit from a predictable regulatory environment.
    3. 3. **Budget Accordingly**: Use these new caps to create a more accurate and leaner business plan for 2026.

    The 2026 Model Fees By-Laws are a significant step toward a more business-friendly Zimbabwe. Stay informed and take advantage of these changes to grow your venture!

  • The Green Gold: How to Enter Zimbabwe’s Booming Blueberry Export Market

    Blueberries are rapidly becoming one of Zimbabwe’s most lucrative export crops. With a favorable climate and a strategic market window that allows us to enter global markets before major producers like Peru and Morocco, the potential for growth is immense.

    Why Blueberries?

    Zimbabwe’s climate, particularly in regions like Mashonaland East, is perfectly suited for high-quality blueberry production. Current yields have surged from 13 to 22 tonnes per hectare, showcasing the sector’s remarkable progress.

    Key Opportunities for Entrepreneurs:

    1. **Direct Farming**: With the government targeting a US$2bn horticulture sector by 2030, there is significant support for new investors and farmers.
    2. 2. **Outgrower Schemes**: Smaller farmers can partner with established producers to access global markets and technical expertise.
    3. 3. **Value Chain Services**: Opportunities exist in cold chain logistics, specialized packaging, and technical consultancy for new entrants.

    How to Get Started:

    • **Research the Market**: Understand the global demand cycles and quality standards required for export.
    • * **Secure Land and Financing**: Focus on regions with the right soil and climate profiles.
    • * **Compliance**: Ensure your operations meet international phytosanitary and labor standards.

    The blueberry industry is not just a trend; it’s a sustainable business opportunity for those ready to invest in Zimbabwe’s agricultural future.

  • Zimbabwe Business Trends 2026: What Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know

    As we move further into 2026, the Zimbabwean business landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. For entrepreneurs and business leaders, staying ahead of the curve is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Here are the key trends shaping business in Zimbabwe this year.

    1. The Digital Transformation Accelerates

    From fintech to e-commerce, digital solutions are no longer optional. With the increasing penetration of high-speed internet and the growth of mobile payment platforms, businesses that embrace digital transformation are seeing significant gains in efficiency and market reach.

    2. Sustainable and Green Business Practices

    There is a growing emphasis on sustainability. Whether it’s renewable energy solutions, waste management, or sustainable agriculture, businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility are finding new opportunities and gaining favor with both local and international investors.

    3. The Rise of the “Gig Economy”

    The traditional 9-to-5 is being supplemented, and in some cases replaced, by the gig economy. More Zimbabweans are turning to freelance work and short-term contracts, driven by the flexibility and the ability to earn in multiple currencies. Businesses are also benefiting by tapping into a diverse pool of specialized talent on an as-needed basis.

    4. Focus on Local Value Addition

    There is a strong push towards local value addition, especially in the mining and agriculture sectors. Instead of exporting raw materials, there is a growing trend towards processing and manufacturing locally. This not only creates jobs but also ensures that more of the value chain remains within the country.

    5. Regulatory Compliance and Transparency

    With the government’s focus on improving the ease of doing business, there is an increased emphasis on regulatory compliance and transparency. Entrepreneurs need to stay updated on the latest ZIMRA regulations, labor laws, and sector-specific requirements to avoid penalties and build trust with stakeholders.

    Conclusion

    2026 is a year of immense opportunity for those who are adaptable and forward-thinking. By embracing technology, sustainability, and local value addition, Zimbabwean entrepreneurs can not only survive but thrive in this dynamic environment. Stay tuned to “Survive and Succeed” for more updates on the trends that matter to you!

  • Adapting the ‘Side Hustle’ Culture: Lessons from Kenya and Nigeria for Zimbabwean Entrepreneurs

    In Zimbabwe, the “side hustle” is more than just a trend; it’s a survival strategy. However, to move from survival to success, we can learn valuable lessons from other African tech and business hubs like Kenya and Nigeria.

    1. Kenya: The Power of Mobile Money (M-Pesa)

    Kenya revolutionized the world with M-Pesa. The lesson for Zimbabweans is the importance of leveraging mobile technology for financial inclusion. Entrepreneurs should look at how to integrate mobile payments and digital services into their side hustles to reach a broader audience and simplify transactions.

    2. Nigeria: The Spirit of Resilience and Scale

    Nigeria’s “Nollywood” and tech scenes are built on sheer resilience and the ability to scale. Nigerian entrepreneurs often start small but think big. The lesson here is to build systems that allow your side hustle to grow into a full-scale business. Don’t just sell to your neighborhood; think about how you can serve the entire country or even the region.

    3. Community and Networking

    In both Kenya and Nigeria, entrepreneurship is often a community effort. Hubs like Nairobi’s iHub or Lagos’s CcHub provide spaces for collaboration. Zimbabwean entrepreneurs should seek out or create local networks to share resources, ideas, and support.

    4. Solving Local Problems with Global Standards

    The most successful startups in Kenya and Nigeria solve local problems—like logistics, healthcare, or education—using global standards. Zimbabwean entrepreneurs should look at the unique challenges we face and find innovative, high-quality solutions that can compete on a global stage.

    Conclusion

    The side hustle culture is a testament to Zimbabwean ingenuity. By adapting the lessons of scale, technology, and community from our neighbors, we can transform our hustles into sustainable businesses that drive our economy forward. Survive today, succeed tomorrow!

  • Choosing the Right University Program for Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030

    As Zimbabwe marches towards Vision 2030—aiming to become an upper-middle-income economy—the landscape of higher education and career opportunities is shifting. For students and parents, choosing the right university program is no longer just about passion; it’s about strategic alignment with the country’s growth sectors.

    1. The Rise of STEM and Innovation

    The government’s Education 5.0 model emphasizes innovation, industrialization, and heritage-based education. Programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are at the forefront. Fields like Biotechnology, Robotics, and Renewable Energy Engineering are becoming increasingly critical as Zimbabwe seeks to modernize its industries.

    2. Agriculture and Agribusiness

    Agriculture remains the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy. However, the focus is shifting from traditional farming to high-tech agribusiness. Degrees in Agricultural Engineering, Climate-Smart Agriculture, and Food Science are essential for ensuring food security and driving exports.

    3. Mining and Mineral Processing

    With vast mineral wealth, including lithium, gold, and platinum, Zimbabwe needs experts in Mining Engineering, Metallurgy, and Geology. The push for local value addition means that mineral processing and chemical engineering will be high-demand fields in the coming decade.

    4. Digital Economy and ICT

    The world is digital, and Zimbabwe is no exception. Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Science are programs that offer global opportunities while solving local challenges. As more businesses move online, the demand for ICT professionals will continue to soar.

    5. Entrepreneurship and Creative Industries

    Not everyone needs a traditional corporate job. Programs that foster entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and creative arts are vital for those looking to build their own paths. The ability to innovate and create value is a core pillar of Vision 2030.

    Conclusion

    Choosing a university program is a life-defining decision. By aligning your studies with the priority sectors of Vision 2030, you not only secure your future but also contribute to the survival and success of our nation. Stay tuned for our next post on how to survive and succeed without a degree!

  • Starting a Business in Zimbabwe: A Step-by-Step Guide to ZIMRA Compliance

    Starting a business in Zimbabwe is an exciting journey, but navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial for long-term success. One of the most important steps is ensuring compliance with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).

    1. Register Your Business

    Before approaching ZIMRA, you must have a registered legal entity. This can be a Private Limited Company (PLC) or a Private Business Corporation (PBC) registered through the Deeds, Companies and Intellectual Property (DCIP) office.

    2. Apply for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

    Once registered, every new business must register with ZIMRA for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). This is done through the ZIMRA e-services portal. You will need your company registration documents, directors’ IDs, and proof of residence.

    3. Register for Specific Tax Heads

    Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for:

    • **Income Tax**: Mandatory for all businesses.
    • – **Value Added Tax (VAT)**: Mandatory if your annual turnover exceeds the threshold (currently US$40,000).
    • – **Pay As You Earn (PAYE)**: If you have employees.
    • – **Presumptive Tax**: For certain small-scale businesses like transport or hair salons.

    4. Fiscalization

    Most businesses are now required to use fiscal devices to record sales. These devices are linked to ZIMRA’s servers to ensure real-time reporting of transactions.

    5. Stay Compliant

    Compliance isn’t a one-time event. You must file your returns on time and pay any taxes due to avoid penalties and interest.

    By following these steps, you build a solid foundation for your business to survive and succeed in Zimbabwe’s dynamic economy. Stay tuned for more tips on banking and local regulations!