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Zimbabwe

 

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa, known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and complex history. The country is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia to the northwest, and Mozambique to the east and northeast. Its capital and largest city is Harare. Zimbabwe boasts several tourist attractions, including the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, which it shares with Zambia. The country also has a wealth of wildlife, with national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools offering safaris and encounters with a variety of animals, including the Big Five. Zimbabwe's economy has faced numerous challenges over the past decades, including hyperinflation, political turmoil, and international sanctions. Despite these challenges, Zimbabweans are known for their resilience and hospitality. The country has 16 official languages, with English, Shona, and Ndebele being the most widely spoken. Zimbabwe's cultural heritage includes music, dance, and the visual arts, with the Shona people internationally recognized for their stone sculpture. The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an important symbol of the country's rich history and offers insight into the ancient civilization that once thrived there. Zimbabwe's education system was once one of the best in Africa, although it has been affected by the country's economic difficulties. The climate in Zimbabwe is tropical, with a rainy season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. The eastern highlands are known for their cool temperatures and lush vegetation, contrasting with the hot and arid lowlands.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Zimbabwe is considered moderate. While some goods and services can be expensive due to inflation and import costs, local products and services are generally affordable.

Weather

Zimbabwe experiences a tropical climate with a rainy season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. The country generally has a moderate climate due to its high altitude, with warm summers and mild winters. However, temperatures can vary greatly between day and night, and the eastern highlands are significantly cooler and wetter than the lower-lying areas.

Educational System Zimbabwe

The educational system in Zimbabwe is structured in a 7-4-2 system, which includes seven years of primary education, four years of secondary education, and two years of advanced level education. Education in Zimbabwe is mandatory until the age of 16. Children typically start Grade 1 at the age of six, and they complete their primary education in Grade 7. The primary education curriculum covers basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as subjects like environmental science, social studies, and local languages. After primary school, students proceed to secondary school, which is divided into two stages: 'O' Level (Form 1 to Form 4) and 'A' Level (Form 5 and Form 6). The 'O' Level stage culminates in the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level examinations, while the 'A' Level stage ends with the ZIMSEC Advanced Level examinations. These examinations are crucial for university entrance. The quality of education in Zimbabwe has historically been high, but it has faced challenges due to economic difficulties. Nevertheless, the country has a high literacy rate, and there are numerous public and private schools to choose from. Parents moving to Zimbabwe can expect a strong emphasis on academic achievement, with a curriculum that includes a mix of traditional subjects and preparation for higher education and the workforce.

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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency visa in Zimbabwe involves several steps and can be moderately challenging, depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The most common types of residency visas for expats include the Temporary Employment Permit, Residence Permit, and Business Investor’s Permit. The Temporary Employment Permit is designed for individuals who have secured employment in Zimbabwe. Applicants must provide a contract of employment, a CV, qualifications, and a clearance letter from the Ministry of Labor. This permit is usually valid for one to two years and can be renewed. The Residence Permit is for those seeking permanent residency and is typically granted to individuals who have continuously lived in Zimbabwe for a certain number of years, have stable employment, or are married to a Zimbabwean citizen. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially and may be required to provide police clearance and medical certificates. The Business Investor’s Permit is for entrepreneurs and investors who plan to start or invest in a business in Zimbabwe. Applicants must submit a comprehensive business plan, proof of investment, and may need to meet a minimum investment threshold. Digital nomads often use the Tourist Visa or Business Visa for short stays. The Tourist Visa is usually valid for 30 days and can be extended for up to six months. The Business Visa is suitable for those who are conducting short-term business activities and is also valid for 30 days with possible extensions. The application process generally requires submitting the relevant forms, supporting documents, and paying the applicable fees. The complexity of the process can vary, with some applicants experiencing delays or requests for additional documentation. It is advisable to work with a local immigration lawyer or a consultancy to navigate the process effectively. Applicants should also be prepared for possible changes in immigration policies, which can affect the ease of obtaining a residency visa.

Living in Zimbabwe

Healthcare in Zimbabwe

The healthcare system in Zimbabwe is a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is underfunded and faces challenges such as shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel. This has led to a decline in the quality of healthcare services provided in public hospitals and clinics. Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers better quality services but at a higher cost, making it less accessible to the majority of the population. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but it is recommended that they have private health insurance to ensure access to better facilities and care. The cost of healthcare varies widely between the public and private sectors, with private healthcare being significantly more expensive.

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