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Members of the Zimbabwe National Army received their bonuses more than a week ago and the rest of the civil service, including those in the education sector, are expected to get theirs next month.
Furniture shops, electrical shops and clothing shops recorded brisk business from the civil servants who were buying furniture, electrical gadgets and clothing items for their families.
Even fast food outlets and the usually quiet drinking spots were a hive of activity as the civil servants spent their money.
Chronicle caught up with some members of the police at Sat Communications shop in town where some were buying stoves, television sets, stands and wardrobes.
“This is the only time that I can buy something big for my family using my 13th cheque. I have bought a wardrobe and this is a Christmas present for my wife,” said a police officer on condition of anonymity.
Reports from Hwange also indicated that furniture shops and clothing shops were very busy.
“The day has been made sweet by the fact that the cash is readily available at the banks. I only spent about three minutes in the queue before I was served,” said another civil servant.
Junior members of the uniformed forces, who earn an average $400, reportedly had about $800 deposited into their accounts this month.
Last year the Government staggered bonus payments for civil servants with those in the education sector getting the 13th cheque in December while other workers got theirs in November.
Online Reporter