In an economy where every dollar counts, the desire for an extra stream of income is more than just an ambition—it’s a necessity. The good news is that you don’t need a hefty bank loan or a wealthy benefactor to start building your own enterprise. With a bit of ingenuity, hard work, and a starting capital of less than $50, you can launch a practical, low-cost, and low-risk side hustle.

This guide explores seven tangible business ideas tailored for the Zimbabwean context, focusing on sourcing, simple pricing, and navigating the realities of a multi-currency environment.

1. Airtime & Data Reselling

This is a classic for a reason: it’s simple, in constant demand, and requires minimal space.

• The Idea: Buy airtime and data bundles in bulk at a slight discount and sell them to your neighbours, colleagues, or at a busy spot in your community.
• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Float (initial airtime/data stock): $40 – $45
  • Basic Supplies (notebook for records, small sign): $5
• The Zim Angle:
  • Sourcing: Purchase bulk airtime directly from network providers (Econet, NetOne, Telecel) or established distributors.
  • Pricing: Your profit lies in the small commission offered on bulk purchases. The key is volume.
  • Payments: Be ready to accept both USD and ZiG. Having an EcoCash number is essential for seamless transactions.

2. Thrift Flipping (“Bhero”)

The market for quality second-hand clothing is booming. With a good eye, you can turn pre-loved items into profit.

• The Idea: Buy bales (or portions of bales) of second-hand clothes, wash and iron them, and resell them individually.
• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Stock (a small bale or a selection of items): $25 – $30
  • Transport from market: $5 – $10
  • Washing supplies & presentation: $5
• The Zim Angle:
  • Sourcing: Mbare Musika in Harare and other local markets are the go-to spots for “mabhero”. Go early for the best selection. You can also source from garage sales and auctions.
  • Pricing: Price items individually based on quality and brand. Create bundles like “3 for $2” to move stock faster.
  • Marketing: Use WhatsApp Status and Facebook Marketplace to showcase your best items. Good presentation is key.

3. Homemade Peanut Butter (Dovi) Production

Peanut butter is a staple in Zimbabwean households, and many people prefer the taste and quality of homemade versions.

The Idea: Produce fresh, natural peanut butter and sell it in your local community.

• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Raw Materials (shelled groundnuts, salt/sugar): $20
  • Grinding Service Fee (initially): $10
  • Packaging (reusable jars, bottles, lids): $15
• The Zim Angle:
  • Sourcing: Buy high-quality groundnuts from places like Mbare Musika.
  • As you grow, you can source directly from farmers in regions like Murehwa and Mutoko to increase profits.
  • Pricing: Peanut butter is often sold in 375ml jars. Price competitively with local producers, emphasizing your product’s freshness.
  • Growth: Start by using a local grinding mill, then invest in your own machine as your business expands.

4. Hair Braiding & Basic Styling

If you have a talent for hair, you can turn it into a flexible, service-based hustle.

• The Idea: Offer hair braiding and basic styling services from your home or by making house calls.
• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Basic Tools (combs, clips, spray bottle): $15
  • Initial Products (gels, oils, small stock of braiding fibre): $25
  • Portfolio: $0 (use your phone to take pictures of your work)
• The Zim Angle:
  • Marketing: Word-of-mouth is powerful. Start with friends and family. Create a WhatsApp or Facebook page to display your work.
  • Pricing: Research what other local braiders are charging. Offer a small discount for first-time clients or referrals.
  • Payments: Be clear about your pricing upfront. Accept mobile money and cash.

5. Printing, Photocopying & Document Services

In many communities, access to a printer or photocopier is limited. This is a valuable service, especially near schools or government offices.

• The Idea: Offer basic printing, photocopying, and document scanning services.
• Startup Cost Breakdown (assuming you have a basic laptop/computer):
  • Used 3-in-1 Printer: $40 – $50 (look for deals online or in downtown tech shops)
  • Initial Supplies (ream of paper, ink cartridge): Can be part of the initial $50 or the first expense after a few sales.
• The Zim Angle:
  • Location: Your success depends on visibility. If you can’t afford a dedicated spot, advertise with a clear sign outside your home.
  • Pricing: Charge per page. Keep your prices competitive with internet cafes.
  • Expansion: Add services like CV typing, document formatting, and laminating as you grow.

6. Social Media Management for Tuckshops & Small Traders

Many small, local businesses know they need to be online but lack the time or skills.

The Idea: Manage the WhatsApp and Facebook presence for local tuckshops, salons, or tradespeople.

• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Your Smartphone & Data: ~$10
  • Canva (for design): Free version is sufficient
• The Zim Angle:
  • The Pitch: Approach a local business owner and offer a free one-week trial. Show them how you can create simple graphics for their daily specials, post consistently, and engage with customer inquiries.
  • Services: Offer to manage their WhatsApp for Business account, create a simple Facebook page, and post daily updates.
  • Pricing: Charge a small monthly retainer, for example, $20-$30 per client. This is a high-value, low-cost service that can scale quickly.

7. Fresh Vegetable Packs

Convenience is a powerful selling point. Many people want fresh vegetables without the time-consuming trip to the market.

• The Idea: Buy popular vegetables in bulk, create convenient daily or weekly packs, and sell them in your neighbourhood.
• Startup Cost Breakdown:
  • Initial Vegetable Stock: $30
  • Packaging (eco-friendly bags or plastics): $5
  • Transport: $10
• The Zim Angle:
  • Sourcing: Wake up early and head to Mbare Musika for the best wholesale prices on tomatoes, onions, leafy greens (covo, rape), and other staples.
  • Pricing: Calculate the cost per pack and add a reasonable markup. Offer different sized packs (e.g., a “relish pack” for $1, a weekly family pack for $5).
  • Marketing: Use a WhatsApp group for your street or neighbourhood to post what’s available each day and take pre-orders.

Your Next Step

Starting small is not a weakness; it’s a strategy. Each of these ideas allows you to test the market, build your skills, and grow your capital organically. The key is to begin.

For many Zimbabweans, the daily commute is an adventure, a comedy show, and a test of endurance all rolled into one. The iconic kombi, a privately-owned minibus, is the lifeblood of urban transport, a rolling microcosm of Zimbabwean society where stories are born, friendships are forged (sometimes in the heat of a debate), and survival skills are honed. This is a tribute to the daily grind, a collection of hilarious tales and essential survival tips for navigating the wild world of the kombi commute.

The Unwritten Rules of Kombi Engagement: A Survivor’s Guide

Stepping into a kombi is to enter a world with its own unique set of rules and etiquette. For the uninitiated, it can be a daunting experience. But fear not, with these survival tips, you’ll be navigating the kombi ranks like a seasoned pro.

First and foremost, have your fare ready. There’s an unspoken understanding that you should have your money easily accessible. Fumbling for cash when the windi (conductor) demands it is a rookie mistake that will earn you disapproving glares. And speaking of fares, the issue of change is a perennial problem. To avoid the back-and-forth and the potential of being “married” to a fellow passenger to sort out change, try to have smaller denominations. Some savvy commuters suggest getting ZiG coins or notes from a bank or designated booths at the terminus to avoid the hassle altogether.

Seating is another crucial aspect of the kombi experience. The unwritten rule is to slide in and make room for others. The kombi is a space of shared, and often cramped, existence.  And a word to the wise: avoid peeping at your neighbour’s phone. While you’re sharing a ride, you’re not sharing lives.

Hilarious Tales from the Commuter Frontlines

Every kombi ride is a potential source of a good story. From the absurd to the downright comical, the daily commute is a stage for unforgettable moments.

One common source of amusement is the “overtime” fare debate. As evening approaches, some conductors declare an impromptu price hike, citing that they are now working “overtime.” This often leads to a spirited debate, with passengers uniting in protest, sometimes in a chorus of multiple languages.

Then there are the characters you meet. The preacher who delivers a fire-and-brimstone sermon between bus stops, the vendor hawking everything from “miracle” herbs to the latest gadgets, and the aspiring musician whose mixtape becomes the reluctant soundtrack for your journey. These encounters are a reminder that a kombi is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a moving theatre of Zimbabwean life.

And who can forget the conductors themselves? With their unique slang and witty commentary, they are the masters of ceremony on this daily stage. Their shouts of “Kusvika pa corner!” (to the corner) or “Huyai mutaure!” (come and talk) are part of the urban soundscape. Their interactions with passengers, from playful banter to heated arguments over change, are the stuff of legend.

The Language of the Kombi: A Mini-Glossary

To truly immerse yourself in the kombi experience, you need to understand the lingo. Here are a few essential terms:

• Windi: The conductor, the person who collects the fare and often hangs precariously from the doorway.
• Hwindi: A more general term for the touts and conductors at the ranks.
• “Kudonhedza”: To be dropped off.
• “Mushikashika”: The smaller, often unregistered pirate taxis that are a common, albeit risky, alternative.
• “Rank Marshall”: The self-appointed organizers at the kombi terminus who control the queues.

The kombi is a uniquely Zimbabwean institution. It’s a place of chaos and order, frustration and laughter. It’s where you’ll witness the resilience, humour, and camaraderie of the Zimbabwean people. So next time you hop into a kombi, remember these chronicles. You’re not just on a commute; you’re part of a story.

As a business owner in Zimbabwe, you’re constantly looking for ways to stay ahead of the competition and achieve your goals. One crucial aspect of your business’s online presence is your email address. With Tremhost’s email hosting solutions, you can unlock the full potential of your business and take it to the next level.

Why Choose Tremhost’s Email Hosting Solutions?

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At Tremhost, we offer a range of email hosting plans that are designed to meet the needs of businesses in Zimbabwe. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose us:

1. Custom Email Addresses: Create custom email addresses that match your domain name and reinforce your brand.
2. Advanced Security Features: Enjoy advanced security features, such as intelligent spam filtering and encryption, to protect your inbox from spam and malware.
3. Seamless Workflow Automation: Automate your workflow with features like autoresponders and email forwarding.
4. Access to Your Email from Anywhere: Access your email from anywhere in the world, on any device.

The Benefits of Tremhost’s Email Hosting Solutions

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By choosing Tremhost’s email hosting solutions, you can:

1. Increase Credibility: A professional email address instantly boosts your business’s credibility and trustworthiness.
2. Improve Brand Identity: A custom email address reinforces your brand and helps to establish your business as a serious player in your industry.
3. Enhance Productivity: With advanced security features and automation tools, you can streamline your workflow and increase productivity.
4. Save Time and Money: By reducing the time spent on managing your email, you can focus on growing your business and increasing revenue.

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As a business owner in Zimbabwe, you’re constantly looking for ways to save money and increase efficiency. However, using a free email address like Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail for your business can actually end up costing you more in the long run. In this post, we’ll explore the hidden costs of using a free email address and why it’s worth investing in a professional email address with Tremhost.

The Hidden Costs of Free Email Addresses

While free email addresses may seem like a cost-effective solution, they can actually end up costing you more in terms of:

1. Lost Business Opportunities: A free email address can make your business appear unprofessional and amateurish, which can lead to lost business opportunities. Potential clients and partners may be deterred by your email address, which can impact your bottom line.
2. Time and Productivity: Managing a free email address can be time-consuming, especially when it comes to dealing with spam and security issues. This can take away from the time you could be spending on growing your business.
3. Security Risks: Free email addresses are often more vulnerable to security risks, such as hacking and phishing attacks. This can put your business’s sensitive information at risk and compromise your reputation.
4. Limited Features and Storage: Free email addresses often come with limited features and storage space, which can hinder your ability to manage your email effectively.

The Benefits of Professional Email Addresses

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A professional email address that matches your domain name (e.g., [yourname]@yourbusiness.co.zw) offers a range of benefits, including:

1. Increased Credibility: A professional email address instantly boosts your business’s credibility and trustworthiness.
2. Improved Brand Identity: A custom email address reinforces your brand and helps to establish your business as a serious player in your industry.
3. Enhanced Security: Professional email addresses often come with advanced security features, such as intelligent spam filtering and encryption, to protect your inbox from spam and malware.
4. Seamless Workflow: Professional email addresses often come with automation features, such as autoresponders and email forwarding, to streamline your workflow and increase productivity.

Introducing Tremhost’s Email Hosting Plans

https://tremhost.com/emailhosting.html

Tremhost offers a range of email hosting plans that are designed to meet the needs of businesses in Zimbabwe. With plans starting at $5/month, you can enjoy:

1. Custom Email Addresses: Create custom email addresses that match your domain name and reinforce your brand.
2. Advanced Security Features: Enjoy advanced security features, such as intelligent spam filtering and encryption, to protect your inbox from spam and malware.
3. Seamless Workflow Automation: Automate your workflow with features like autoresponders and email forwarding.
4. Access to Your Email from Anywhere: Access your email from anywhere in the world, on any device.

Calculate the Cost of Using a Free Email Address

Let’s assume that you’re currently using a free email address and you’re spending 2 hours per week dealing with spam and security issues. That’s equivalent to:

• 2 hours/week x 52 weeks/year = 104 hours/year
• Assuming an hourly wage of $10, that’s equivalent to $1,040/year

By investing in a professional email address with Tremhost, you can save time and increase productivity, which can have a direct impact on your bottom line.

Take Your Business to the Next Level

Don’t let a free email address hold you back from achieving your business goals. Upgrade to a professional email address with Tremhost today and start building the credibility and trust you deserve.

As a business owner in Zimbabwe, you’re constantly looking for ways to stay ahead of the competition and build a strong reputation in your industry. One often-overlooked aspect of your business’s online presence is your email address. While using a free email address like Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail might seem like a convenient and cost-effective solution, it can actually be holding you back from achieving your business goals.

The Limitations of Free Email Addresses

Free email addresses are great for personal use, but they’re not suitable for businesses. Here are some reasons why:

1. Lack of Professionalism: A free email address can make your business appear unprofessional and amateurish. This can be a major turn-off for potential clients and partners who are looking for a reliable and trustworthy business to work with.
2. Limited Storage and Features: Free email addresses often come with limited storage space and features, which can hinder your ability to manage your email effectively. This can lead to missed opportunities and a disorganized inbox.
3. Security Risks: Free email addresses are often more vulnerable to security risks, such as hacking and phishing attacks. This can put your business’s sensitive information at risk and compromise your reputation.

The Benefits of Professional Email Addresses

https://tremhost.com/emailhosting.html

A professional email address that matches your domain name (e.g., [yourname]@yourbusiness.co.zw) offers a range of benefits, including:

1. Increased Credibility: A professional email address instantly boosts your business’s credibility and trustworthiness. It shows that you’re serious about your business and committed to providing a high level of professionalism.
2. Improved Brand Identity: A custom email address reinforces your brand and helps to establish your business as a serious player in your industry.
3. Enhanced Security: Professional email addresses often come with advanced security features, such as intelligent spam filtering and encryption, to protect your inbox from spam and malware.
4. Seamless Workflow: Professional email addresses often come with automation features, such as autoresponders and email forwarding, to streamline your workflow and increase productivity.

Introducing Tremhost’s Email Hosting Plans

Tremhost offers a range of email hosting plans that are designed to meet the needs of businesses in Zimbabwe. With plans starting at $5/month, you can enjoy:

1. Custom Email Addresses: Create custom email addresses that match your domain name and reinforce your brand.
2. Advanced Security Features: Enjoy advanced security features, such as intelligent spam filtering and encryption, to protect your inbox from spam and malware.
3. Seamless Workflow Automation: Automate your workflow with features like autoresponders and email forwarding.
4. Access to Your Email from Anywhere: Access your email from anywhere in the world, on any device.

Take Your Business to the Next Level

Don’t let a free email address hold you back from achieving your business goals. Upgrade to a professional email address with Tremhost today and start building the credibility and trust you deserve.

As a business owner in Zimbabwe, you know how important it is to make a great first impression. But did you know that using a free email address like Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail could be costing you business opportunities?

A professional email address that matches your domain name is essential for building trust and credibility with your clients and partners. It’s a simple yet effective way to show that you’re serious about your business and committed to providing a high level of professionalism.

https://tremhost.com/emailhosting.html

By switching to a professional email address with Tremhost, you’ll not only boost your credibility but also enjoy:

1. Advanced security features to protect your inbox from spam and malware
2. Seamless workflow automation to streamline your business operations
3. Access to your email from anywhere in the world, on any device
4. Flexible plans starting at $5/month, with discounts for yearly commitments

https://tremhost.com/emailhosting.html

Don’t let a free email address hold you back from growing your business in Zimbabwe. Make the switch to a professional email address today and start building the credibility and trust you deserve.