Across the globe, a new generation is coming of age, brimming with digital fluency and a deep-seated desire for purpose.
This is Generation Z, and while they are undeniably ambitious and capable, they confront a landscape far more challenging than their predecessors.
They face a more competitive job market, coupled with a bewildering array of social issues that permeate their daily existence.
In Zimbabwe, these global pressures are amplified by unique local complexities, painting a poignant picture of a generation striving against formidable odds.
The challenging work environment, prevalent worldwide and particularly acute in Zimbabwe, creates a central dilemma: Gen Z individuals, though ambitious and skilled, find it difficult to gain a stable position.
They are keen to innovate and help build a better future, but paths to turn this enthusiasm into real advancement frequently seem blocked.
Research consistently portrays a generation that is both resolute and bewildered, a feeling strongly reflected by young Zimbabweans confronting their economic struggles.
This highlights an urgent call for employers and national leaders to rethink career development and societal support systems to engage and keep these young people, thus protecting the nation’s future
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A primary global hurdle for Gen Z is the shrinking availability of jobs, especially for those starting their careers.
According to the World Economic Forum, entry-level job postings worldwide have seen a dramatic 29% reduction since January 2024.
In Zimbabwe, this isn’t just a number; it’s a harsh daily reality for a nation already struggling with high youth unemployment.
University graduates frequently encounter a scarcity of formal employment, compelling many into the informal sector or, increasingly, to seek opportunities abroad.
This outflow of talent signifies a substantial depletion of potential and human capital for a country that critically depends on its young population for progress.
Furthermore, it’s worrying how many Gen Z individuals feel impeded by factors beyond their influence.
Issues like educational challenges, socioeconomic status, or family obligations threaten to halt their career aspirations at a pivotal moment.
These external barriers are amplified in Zimbabwe due to a struggling public education system, restricted access to quality higher learning, and the immense burden of family support in a tough economy.
Consequently, many young Zimbabweans must put their personal dreams on hold, prioritizing mere survival over skill development and pursuing their desired career paths
Adding another layer of profound difficulty to the lives of Zimbabwean Gen Z are the burgeoning crises of drug abuse and deteriorating mental health.
The relentless economic pressures, the pervasive sense of hopelessness born from a lack of opportunity, and the constant struggle to make ends meet have created a fertile ground for these social ills.
Consequently, many young Zimbabweans turn to destructive coping mechanisms.
The abuse of substances like crystal meth (mutoriro), codeine-based cough syrups, and marijuana has become alarmingly prevalent, particularly in urban areas and high-density suburbs.
This isn’t merely recreational drug use; it’s often a desperate escape from the harsh realities of their lives, a temporary reprieve from anxiety, joblessness, and the feeling of being forgotten.
Furthermore, the underlying mental health crisis among this demographic is equally alarming, and intrinsically linked to substance abuse.
The constant stress of unemployment, the pressure to provide for families, the social stigma associated with poverty, and the lack of a clear future path contribute significantly to widespread depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
Young people are battling feelings of inadequacy and despair, yet access to professional mental health services in Zimbabwe remains severely limited.
There’s a pervasive stigma around mental illness, which prevents many from seeking help.
Moreover, the few available services are often unaffordable or geographically inaccessible, leaving countless young individuals to suffer in silence, their potential gradually eroded by internal battles.
This twin crisis of drug abuse and mental health is not just a personal tragedy for countless families; it represents a significant public health challenge and an existential threat to the nation’s human capital.
Without robust interventions, the dream of a vibrant, productive youth population risks being irrevocably diminished.
Despite the widespread gloom over socioeconomic challenges, Gen Z worldwide generally displays enthusiasm for Artificial Intelligence, leveraging their innate digital skills.
Yet, their underlying self-doubt, intensified by the cutthroat job market and social anxieties, also applies to technology.
They represent the largest group—46%—who are concerned about how AI might affect their employment.”
For Zimbabwean Gen Z, this apprehension is particularly acute.
While many are digitally native, the digital divide remains a significant hurdle.
Access to reliable internet, affordable data, and even basic computing devices is not universal.
The fear that AI might displace what few jobs exist in traditional sectors is a very real concern, potentially creating a new layer of socioeconomic vulnerability for those unable to adapt or access the necessary digital upskilling.
Consequently, employers and leaders must collaborate closely with young talent to understand this delicate situation and prevent Gen Z from losing faith in AI.
Rather than perceiving it as a danger, AI offers a chance to develop new sectors and improve current ones.
For example, by providing the required training and infrastructure, fostering skills in areas like AI prompt engineering, data analytics, or digital content creation could open up fresh career avenues for young Zimbabweans
To fully realise Gen Z’s vast potential, especially within demanding contexts like Zimbabwe, it is crucial that we collectively establish settings where aspiration converges with opportunity, and where a sense of purpose fuels advancement.
Leaders from all domains—government, private enterprise, and civil society—bear the responsibility of initiating this change. This calls for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the economic, social, and mental well-being requirements of this generation.”
In Zimbabwe, this means more than just traditional vocational training.
It requires fostering entrepreneurship through accessible incubation hubs, seed funding, and mentorship programs that equip young people not just with skills, but with the resilience and business acumen to create their own opportunities.
It necessitates investing in digital literacy programs that go beyond basic computer skills to encompass advanced tech training, positioning young Zimbabweans to harness AI rather than fear it.
Furthermore, it demands a critical look at the education system to ensure it produces graduates with skills relevant to the evolving global and local job markets.
Beyond economic opportunities, creating a culture that builds confidence is equally vital.
This includes establishing robust, accessible, and destigmatised mental health services.
Schools, communities, and workplaces must become safe spaces where young people can discuss their struggles and receive support without fear of judgment.
Implementing public awareness campaigns to combat drug abuse, coupled with rehabilitation programs, is no longer optional but an absolute necessity.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s Gen Z stands at a critical juncture. Possessing an admirable spirit of ambition and adaptability, they are nonetheless navigating a labyrinth of global economic contraction, acute local job scarcity, and the devastating societal scourges of drug abuse and mental health crises.
*Nyawo is Development practitioner, writer and public speaker. These weekly articles are coordinated by Lovemore Kadenge, an independent consultant, managing consultant of Zawale Consultant (Private) Limited, past president of the Zimbabwe Economics Society and past president of the Chartered Governance & Accountancy in Zimbabwe. Email- [email protected] or Mobile No. +263 772 382 852
