But in 2018, a fire gutted the entire flat, leaving Chihwayi and other families out in the cold

Patsikadova’s story mirrors that of many Zimbabweans who are reeling in poverty as they struggle to survive.

Despite the challenges Garimoto faces, he said he still enjoys the independence that comes with living alone.

“I was afraid of going to live alone, but I was counseled and told that going to live alone was a part of growing up,” says the shy and reserved Garimoto.

The mother of two was devastated. She felt betrayed. “I thought that she was going to keep the issue a secret when I confided in her,” she said.

A friend recommended a nearby clinic operating illegally in someone’s home. “I had a conviction that this was the only immediate option,” she says.

Since the pandemic, many major economies like the United Kingdom have tightened restrictions on visas.

Philosoph says his life depends on bimonthly distributions from the World Food Programme, which sends food aid globally to refugees and other people in need.

Children who relied on foreign aid for school sponsorships and HIV medication now face an uncertain future.

But they can be bought under the table, if you know who to ask and are willing to pay.

The University of Zimbabwe’s registrar’s office did not respond to a Global Press Journal request for comment.