Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
WHEN tuition bills soar and formal jobs remain elusive, Zimbabwe’s youths aren’t waiting.
They’re creating, trading, hustling and rebuilding their future one side gig at a time.
From Harare’s hostel kitchens to Chitungwiza’s recycled sneaker stalls, a new generation is redefining what success looks like. “We are not lazy,” says Kundai Moyo, a 23-year-old university student in Harare who runs a small nail business from her hostel.
Side hustles have become more than just a way to make ends meet. They’re a statement of self-reliance, creativity and ambition.
Across campuses, streets, and online platforms, the youths are selling thrifted clothes, offering photography services, running food deliveries, tutoring, or becoming social media influencers. “I started selling perfumes to my classmates just to afford Wi-Fi,” said Tendai Mlambo, a University of Zimbabwe student.
“Now I’m planning to register it as a business.” Technology has become a powerful enabler.
Social media and mobile money platforms have made it easier to market, sell, and receive payment.
A TikTok skit can go viral overnight. An Instagram page can become a boutique.
But it’s not all easy.
“Balancing school and business is exhausting,” said Lisa Dube, who runs a baked goods page on Facebook.
“Sometimes I submit assignments late, but it’s worth it.”
Despite challenges, this generation’s drive is unmatched. They aren’t just side hustling to survive they’re building futures.
“I don’t want to wait for a job,” said Chido Mwonzora (21) from Mbare, who sells custom embroidered denim jackets on Instagram. “I started because I needed data and transport. Now I’m dreaming bigger.”
Her story mirrors thousands across the city.
For Tafadzwa Nyathi, 25, from Warren Park, the side hustle wasn’t an option, it was a necessity. “My salary was gone before the month ended. So I created short video tutorials to teach students, set up a WhatsApp class.
“The extra income means food, rent and some hope.”
His story echoes the continent wide realization that hustling is not optional, it’s survival.
Universities and colleges are feeling the shift too.
Students no longer believe in the old path, finish school, get a job.
They’re blending study with side gigs online tutoring, food delivery, content creation.
