In the video “Relocating to Zimbabwe from the diaspora // COST OF LIVING – What to expect!!,” Zvikomborero Tagwirei discusses the experience of moving back to Zimbabwe from the diaspora, particularly focusing on adjusting to life and the cost of living in Zimbabwe. Zviko highlights the increasing trend of Zimbabweans returning home from places like South Africa, the UK, and the US, often choosing rural areas and emphasizing a return to basics. He notes the improvements in infrastructure such as solar power and internet connectivity, which are making rural living more feasible.
Zviko advises those considering relocation to plan carefully, suggesting they start businesses or have income sources before moving. He stresses the importance of a gradual approach—coming to Zimbabwe, doing research, starting business ventures while still abroad, and then fully relocating when everything is in order. The video also touches on embracing change and finding happiness in new living conditions, contrasting the rural environment’s slower pace with urban or diaspora life. This move is seen as positive for those seeking a more fulfilling, peaceful lifestyle despite initial challenges around housing and income stability.
Zviko breaks down typical costs that people relocating from the diaspora to Zimbabwe should expect. Here is a summary of key cost aspects he mentions:
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Housing rent can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on the location and type of accommodation, with city center apartments typically costing more.
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Food expenses vary, but staples like bread, chicken, beef, fruits, and vegetables are affordable with prices often under a few dollars per item or pound.
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Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet can cost around $50 to $90 monthly, with internet being particularly important for those working remotely.
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Transport costs in urban areas like Harare include about $1 for a local fare and $30 monthly for public transport passes.
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Miscellaneous lifestyle expenses such as fitness memberships, school fees, mobile phone plans, and entertainment will add to monthly budgets.
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Zviko advises budgeting carefully, particularly for initial setup costs and unexpected expenses during the transition period.
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Accommodation: Living in high-density suburbs could mean paying around $70 per room, often without a ceiling, tiles, or an indoor toilet.
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Fuel Costs: Zimbabwe has some of the most expensive fuel in Southern Africa, with petrol and diesel costing approximately $1.55 per liter. This makes transport a significant expense, especially for daily activities, as filling a 50-liter tank can cost around $70.
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Grocery Expenses: Basic commodities and even locally produced goods are expensive. A loaf of bread costs $1, and a family of four could spend $2 on bread daily. Essentials like a dozen eggs cost $2, and a crate costs between $4 and $4.50. A 10kg bag of mealie-meal is about $6-$7.
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Monthly Budget: A standard food basket for a family of four is estimated at $350 per month. Including meat and non-food essentials like detergents, a middle to upper-class family might spend around $800 monthly.
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Data and Internet: Mobile data is costly. A 10GB bundle from Econet costs $12 but might only last about 10 days, suggesting a need for 30GB per month for consistent use. Fiber internet is more affordable at $10 for 50GB, but its availability is limited. She notes that people often end up buying weekly data bundles multiple times a week.
