Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
RESIDENTS of Bulawayo have expressed optimism for 2025, hoping to recover from the challenges faced in 2024, particularly with the recent rains that have fallen towards the end of the year urging the Government to complement it by maintaining policies that promote economic stability.
Many community members view the rains as a positive sign, indicating potential food security not only for Bulawayo but for the entire country.
A snap survey conducted by Sunday News revealed a strong sense of hope within the communities.
Residents shared their plans for transforming their business practices, social activities and aspirations for reviving industries to create more employment opportunities and fight price volatility.
Mr Trust Siziba from Luveve, who was relaxing at Chigumira Shopping Centre, shared his thoughts on the upcoming year.
“I believe 2025 will be a good year because the rains have started falling. We are relieved to have water around us, as water is essential for life. This is an improvement from last season, which was dire. We faced severe drought, leading to livestock deaths and food shortages.
Many were affected by the loss of their livestock and are struggling with stress-related health issues. However, we are optimistic about the upcoming season,” he said.
Mr Siziba also highlighted the critical issue of water scarcity in the city, which he considers a ticking time bomb for public health.
Ms Sitshengisiwe Mpofu, a vendor at the same shopping centre, expressed her concerns about the post-festive season slump in sales but remained hopeful for the rest of 2025.
“I realised brisk business in December, and I’m praying for changes that will yield tangible results from our hard work,” she said.
Additionally, Ms Viteli Moyo shared her gratitude for the improved weather conditions compared to last year.
“We are thankful for the recent rains, which have brought relief compared to last year’s drought. We faced numerous water cuts, making life difficult.
Now, with a more stable supply of water and electricity, we are engaging in urban agriculture. These rains give us hope for a bountiful harvest. Meanwhile, in rural areas, many lost cattle during the dry spell, adversely impacting farming,” she said.
Ms Moyo expressed hope for more business opportunities that can enhance community livelihoods.
On the arts front, Nkululeko Nkala, an arts manager, reflected on the challenges faced in 2024 and looked forward to overcoming them in 2025.
“Last year was particularly tough for the arts sector. I hope that as we enter 2025, both corporate entities and the Government will support the arts and that audiences will appreciate our efforts in taking our acts to new heights,” Nkala stated.
Conversely, businessman Mr Albert Hwingwiri remained cautious about the future.
“It’s premature to predict what 2025 will hold for us. Given the financial challenges we faced in 2024, I’m not expecting much right now. We’ll have to wait and see how things unfold in the coming months.
The cash flow issues are significant; for instance, a purchase of US$5 might not yield change, making transactions difficult,” he noted.
Mr Hwingwiri said he will adopt a wait-and-see approach as the year has just begun.
Life coach, Ms Rejoice Takawira expressed confidence that 2025 would bring exciting opportunities, offering advice for personal and financial growth.
“I anticipate a much better year ahead. We have valuable lessons from 2024 that we can apply to our advantage. Many faced difficulties with finances and connections towards the end of last year.
In 2025, we need to approach situations with maturity and make wiser professional and financial decisions,” Ms Takawira said.
She emphasised the importance of prioritising financial literacy and maintaining positive mental health in the upcoming year.
“We must consciously choose environments that foster our growth and surround ourselves with supportive people who uplift us. Additionally, we should be mindful of our diets, as unhealthy eating habits can negatively impact our health,” she added.
She urged individuals to embrace risks, saying the willingness and readiness to take chances is often a key ingredient for success. — @NyembeziMu
