Online Reporter
Andile Tshuma recently in Nkayi
THE Government, through the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), has launched a nationwide household data collection exercise aimed at building an accurate picture of living conditions and strengthening targeted social protection programmes across the country.
The Zimbabwe Social Registry Survey (Ziso) seeks to establish a comprehensive national database of households that will support the Government and development partners in designing timely and effective interventions for vulnerable communities.
The survey is being implemented by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare in partnership with ZimStat, with enumerators conducting door to door, confidential household interviews in Nkayi District.
The initiative comes as Zimbabwe continues to face climate-related shocks, sustained economic pressures and global instability, which have heightened household vulnerability, particularly in rural communities.
Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells and recurring droughts have disrupted livelihoods across many districts, underscoring the need for reliable and up to date social data to inform policy planning and guide resource allocation.
Traditional leaders in Nkayi have welcomed the exercise, saying accurate and credible statistics are critical for the success of development initiatives. Chief Tshugulu said the programme would enable authorities to gain a clearer understanding of household level challenges.
“This programme is important for our people because it will help the Government understand the challenges faced by households and respond appropriately,” he said.
Headman Mthimkhulu said local leadership was working closely with enumerators to ensure all households are covered, including those in hard to reach areas.
“We are working with enumerators to ensure every household is reached. This is important so that no one is left behind,” he said.
A local villager, Ms Sandisiwe Ncube Ndlovu, said the private nature of the interviews provided families with an opportunity to openly explain their living conditions and needs.
“We are glad that the Government is taking time to understand our situation. We hope this will bring development that speaks to our needs,” she said.
Another villager, who identified himself only as Mr Stephen Machiya, said the exercise had the potential to improve transparency and fairness in the distribution of social assistance.
“If our information is used properly, it can help improve our lives and ensure that support goes to the right people,” he said.
Once completed, the social registry will serve as a centralised database for the Government and its development partners, improving co-ordination, reducing duplication and ensuring scarce resources are directed to households most in need.
The programme aligns with Vision 2030, which prioritises inclusive development, improved service delivery and evidence based policy formulation.
Following its completion in Mangwe District, the survey is now underway in Nkayi and is expected to roll out to other districts, including Mudzi, as the nationwide implementation gathers momentum.
