Are you looking for smart, profitable business ideas in Zimbabwe? Whether you’re a young person hoping to start a side hustle, a professional looking to rebuild after retrenchment, or a diaspora investor returning home, this guide is for you.
Zimbabwe’s Business Snapshot
Economic Snapshot
The economy of Zimbabwe remains tough but promising. The inflation rate remains high, and the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) is volatile, directing most transactions towards the US dollar (USD).
Watch sectors:
- Agriculture
- Mining (particularly lithium)
- Small retail
- Digital services
Entrepreneurship is thriving despite the challenges. More than 90% of the economy is informal, with small businesses calling the shots. It is a developing country in the African subcontinent. The capital and largest city is Harare. Zimbabwe has 16 official languages. However, people commonly use English, Shona, and Ndebele.
Opportunities
- Import substitutes: Products such as maize meal, cooking oil, and detergents have a ready market.
- Digital payments: Products such as EcoCash and OneMoney speed up and secure transactions.
- Urban demand: There’s increasing demand for fast food, online shopping, and convenient services.
Challenges
- Power shortages: This is an opportunity for solar products sales.
- Currency volatility: Calls for flexibility in pricing (USD/ZWL).
- Bureaucracy: A Formal business startup can involve delays.
40 Best Business Ideas in Zimbabwe with Low Investment
Low-Cost Business Ideas in Zimbabwe (Under $1,000)
These business ideas are perfect for individuals with limited capital but a strong drive to earn. Each idea is practical, flexible, and suitable for Zimbabwe’s current economy.
1. Airtime & Data Reselling
You can buy mobile airtime and data bundles in bulk and resell them with a profit margin of 10–20%. This works especially well in rural areas and high-density suburbs where digital payments like EcoCash are widely used. You can start an airtime and data reselling business investing $300 in Zimbabwe.
2. Home Bakery
Think of starting a small bakery from home specializing in birthday cakes, wedding cakes, or scones. Use WhatsApp groups, Facebook Marketplace, and local events for promotion. You can bake with just an oven and basic utensils.
3. Secondhand Clothing (Mitumba)
Source bales of used clothes from Mozambique, Tanzania, or South Africa. You can focus on fast-moving categories like children’s clothes and ladies’ fashion. Sell at flea markets, street stalls, or online.
4. Mobile Phone Repair
One can learn basic mobile repair skills through YouTube or online courses. There is a high demand for mobile repair services in Harare and other urban areas. You can start with simple screen repairs and battery replacements. This is one of the most lucrative business ideas in Zimbabwe, with an investment range of $500 to $1000.
5. Freelance Writing
Offer your writing services to international clients on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. You can specialize in blog writing, product descriptions, or academic writing. Requires just a laptop and an internet connection.
6. Boerewors & Sausage
Partner with a butcher or use your kitchen to make sausages. Boerewors is popular at gatherings and can be sold from home or at events. With good spices and recipes, you can build a loyal local customer base.
7. Dishwashing Liquid Production
Make and package your own brand of dishwashing liquid using simple chemicals. This product is always in demand in urban and rural households. You can market it to neighbors, shops, and vendors.
8. Vegetable Farming (Spinach/Tomatoes)
If you have a small plot of land in your backyard, consider farming vegetables. Grow fast-moving vegetables like tomatoes, spinach, or covo. Sell directly to households or vendors. You can also supply small tuckshops.
9. Snacks & Freezits Production
Make flavored freezits (frozen drinks) or homemade potato chips. These sell well among school children. Distribute through vendors, tuckshops, or your local school network.
10. Mobile Car Wash
Start a mobile car cleaning service using a water tank, bucket, soap, and sponges. You can offer convenience by cleaning cars at offices, homes, or shopping center parking lots. It is one of the low-cost, high-return business ideas in Zimbabwe, if done right.
11. Peanut Butter Making
Peanuts are affordable and easy to process. Use a small grinder or blender to make smooth or crunchy peanut butter. Package in jars and sell to neighbors, vendors, and local shops.
12. Homemade Sweets & Treats
Make maheu, caramel sweets, chocolate-coated peanuts, or popcorn. Children and adults alike love locally made treats. Sell through vendors or at school gates.
B. Mid-Range Business Ideas in Zimbabwe ($1,000–$10,000)
These ideas require moderate investment but offer strong income potential and scalability. They are ideal for those looking to take the next step beyond side hustles.
11. Solar Products Distribution
With frequent power outages in Zimbabwe, there’s high demand for solar panels, lanterns, and batteries. Import products from China or South Africa and sell them through local hardware shops or directly to homes and schools. Partner with technicians for installations.
12. Poultry Farming
Start a poultry farming business with 100–500 broilers or layers. With proper housing, feed, and vaccinations, broilers mature in just 45 days. Eggs and meat are always in demand in urban and rural markets. Sell to supermarkets, butcheries, or directly to consumers.
13. Ecoflame Charcoal Production
Use agricultural waste like maize stalks to make eco-friendly charcoal briquettes. This alternative to firewood is popular in cities and towns. Equipment like molds and presses is affordable, and the business has environmental benefits.
14. VAT-Registered Retail Shop
Register for VAT and start a small retail shop selling groceries, toiletries, or stationery. With VAT registration, you can attract customers who pay in foreign currency and legally reclaim taxes. Select a retail space in high-traffic areas like townships or near schools.
15. Car Wash with Lounge
Open a semi-permanent car wash site with a waiting lounge that serves tea, snacks, or free Wi-Fi. This adds comfort for clients and increases revenue. You’ll need water storage, power backup, and a reliable team.
16. Butchery & Cold Storage
Meat sales are always consistent in urban areas. Open a butchery with cold room storage to ensure meat remains fresh. Source livestock from local farmers and sell different cuts, sausages, and offal.
17. Small-Scale Fish Farming
Start a fish pond with species like tilapia. Fish farming takes 5–6 months before harvest. With growing urban demand, you can sell to restaurants, hotels, or open your own fish market.
18. Tuckshop in High-Traffic Area
Set up a well-stocked tuckshop in a school zone, hospital compound, or busy bus terminus. Sell snacks, bread, drinks, and quick meals. You must keep prices competitive and stock fast-moving items.
19. Motorcycle Courier Services
Buy 1–2 motorcycles and offer delivery services to small businesses or e-commerce vendors. With fuel costs rising, motorbikes are a cheaper and faster alternative. You can consider using WhatsApp for bookings.
20. Printing & Photocopying Shop
Open a shop near a school or government office. Offer photocopying, printing, laminating, and CV typing services. With reliable power and internet, this business earns a daily cash flow.
C. High-Investment Business Ideas in Zimbabwe ($10,000+)
These ventures require significant capital but also offer high returns and job creation potential. They’re ideal for diaspora investors or seasoned entrepreneurs looking to scale big.
21. Maize Milling Plant
With government contracts and school feeding programs, maize meal demand is strong. Invest in hammer mills, packaging machines, and raw maize. Set up in rural areas to access raw supplies and reduce costs. You can sell to retailers or under your own brand.
22. Medical Oxygen Production
Post-COVID healthcare demand remains high. A small-scale oxygen plant can supply clinics and hospitals. Initial setup includes compressors, tanks, and distribution cylinders. Partner with medical distributors or health NGOs.
23. Lithium Processing Unit
Zimbabwe has over 20% of the world’s lithium reserves. Set up a basic lithium ore sorting and processing plant. Focus on exports to battery manufacturers. You’ll need mining licenses and geological expertise.
24. Tourism Lodge or Eco-Resort
Areas like Kariba, Victoria Falls, or Hwange attract both local and foreign tourists. Develop a small lodge or glamping site with unique experiences (safaris, local cuisine, eco-tours). List on Airbnb and work with tour operators.
25. Cryptocurrency Exchange Platform
With currency instability, many Zimbabweans trade in crypto. Build a local exchange with mobile wallet integration and simple onboarding. Ensure compliance with existing financial laws and security protocols.
26. Beverage Bottling Plant
Start a small-scale plant to bottle juices, mineral water, or flavored drinks. Focus on health-conscious and affordable products. Distribute through informal markets, supermarkets, and tuckshops.
27. Cold Chain Logistics Business
Supply cold storage and transport for meat, dairy, and produce. Partner with supermarkets, food exporters, and farms. Requires refrigerated trucks, cold rooms, and solar backup systems.
28. Private Primary School or ECD Centre
Invest in a well-equipped private school in a growing suburb. Demand is high for English-speaking, quality institutions. Focus on a strong curriculum, tech integration, and transport services.
29. Commercial Mushroom Farming
Grow oyster or button mushrooms in climate-controlled tunnels. The market includes restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels. Requires training and investment in growing chambers and humidity control.
30. Soap and Detergent Manufacturing Plant
With the right formulas and packaging, soaps and detergents sell well in both urban and rural markets. Set up automated production with branding and distribution networks.
D. Digital/Online Business Ideas in Zimbabwe
These ideas are perfect for tech-savvy youth, remote workers, and those looking to tap into Zimbabwe’s growing digital economy. Most can be started from home with minimal infrastructure.
31. Zimflix Alternative (Local Streaming Service)
Create a platform that showcases local dramas, comedies, and documentaries. Partner with Zimbabwean filmmakers and comedians. Monetize through subscriptions, ads, or sponsorships.
32. Grocery Delivery App
Target busy families and professionals in high-density suburbs. Allow customers to order via WhatsApp or app. Partner with local supermarkets and use motorbikes for delivery.
33. Online Tutoring (STEM Subjects)
Teach Maths, Science, or English to international students, especially in the UK and US. Use Zoom or Google Meet. Market your services on Fiverr, Upwork, or via LinkedIn.
34. WhatsApp Marketplace Management
Help small businesses create and manage WhatsApp catalogs and product updates. Charge setup and monthly management fees. Ideal for boutiques, salons, and tuckshops.
35. Drone Photography Services
Offer drone footage for mining surveys, farm inspections, and weddings. Start with an entry-level drone and build a portfolio. Target NGOs, real estate agents, and large farms.
36. Affiliate Blogging/Vlogging
Start a blog or YouTube channel focused on Zimbabwean lifestyle, tech, or business tips. Earn through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsorships.
37. Online Printing Services
Allow customers to order business cards, flyers, or school materials online. Partner with a local printer and offer doorstep delivery.
38. Social Media Marketing Agency
Manage Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages for local brands. Offer content creation, ads management, and engagement tracking.
39. Virtual Assistant Services
Provide admin support to clients abroad – data entry, scheduling, customer service. Requires a laptop, strong English skills, and internet.
40. eLearning Platform for Vocational Skills
Build a platform to teach welding, tailoring, carpentry, or cooking. Sell courses or charge a monthly access fee. Work with skilled instructors and NGOs.
More Business Idea Articles:
Factors to Consider to Build a Successful Business in Zimbabwe
Launching a business in Zimbabwe requires more than just a good idea. Understanding the local context will help you stay profitable and compliant. Here are some key factors to consider:
Forex Management
- Pricing Strategy: Most customers prefer to pay in USD. If you accept ZWL, regularly adjust your prices according to the exchange rate.
- Digital Payments: Use platforms like Ecocash, OneMoney, and ZIPIT to receive payments easily. Many customers don’t carry cash.
- Dual Pricing: Some businesses display prices in both ZWL and USD to remain flexible.
Regulations
- ZIMRA Registration: All companies must register for and meet their tax obligations to ZIMRA. Visit: zimra.co.zw
- Operating Licenses: Depending on your sector (food, retail, transport), obtain licenses from local councils or relevant ministries.
- Import Permits: If importing clothing, electronics, or food products, apply for necessary import permits from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
Networking & Business Associations
- ZNCC (Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce): Offers training, events, and access to policy discussions. Join for exposure and partnerships.
- ZNFO (Zimbabwe National Farmers Union): Great for agri-businesses.
- Diaspora Networks: Leverage your diaspora contacts for funding, mentorship, or product sourcing.
Infrastructure Adaptation
- Solar Power: Due to frequent power cuts, invest in solar panels or inverters to keep operations going.
- Water Supply: If your business relies on water (e.g., baking, farming), consider installing tanks or boreholes.
Understanding and adapting to these factors can give your business a real edge in Zimbabwe’s competitive environment.
How to Launch a Business in Zimbabwe – Startup Guide
Starting a business in Zimbabwe can be rewarding if you follow a smart process. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide tailored to the local environment:
Step 1: Idea Validation
- Talk to Your Market: Use WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages, or local forums to ask what people need or want.
- Quick Surveys: Conduct simple polls to find demand for your product or service.
- Test Small: Sell a few items or services before investing big.
Step 2: Register and Comply
- Business Name: Choose a unique name and register it with the Companies Registry.
- ZIMRA Registration: All individuals, companies, partnerships and cooperatives who want to venture into any business are required to register with ZIMRA
- Sector Permits: Depending on your business type, get food handling permits, vendor licenses, or other approvals.
Step 3: Find Funding
- Microfinance: Consider loan options from CABS, Steward Bank, or other microfinance institutions.
- NGO Grants: Look for support from organizations like UNDP or local entrepreneur hubs.
- Family & Friends: Many small ventures start with family support.
Step 4: Location & Operations
- Choose Wisely: Harare has demand but high costs. Consider Bulawayo or growth hubs like Gweru.
- Work From Home: Reduce costs by operating from your backyard, room, or a converted shed.
- Buy Used Equipment: Cut costs by buying secondhand.
Step 5: Market Your Business
- Social Media: Use WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok to promote. Post daily and engage with comments.
- Kombi Ads: Place posters inside commuter omnibuses or work with kombi owners for regular routes.
- Community Boards: Post flyers at churches, schools, and shopping centres.
Follow these steps to launch confidently and grow sustainably, even with limited resources.
Case Studies of Successful Entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe
⇒ Kombi King: From $500 to a 10-Vehicle Fleet
In 2018, Tawanda started with a single secondhand kombi bought from his uncle for $500. He focused on reliable routes between Chitungwiza and Harare. With consistent savings, he bought a second vehicle within 18 months. By 2024, he had grown to 10 kombis and employed 15 people. His keys to success? Good driver selection, regular maintenance, and smart use of Ecocash to track fares.
⇒ Ecoflame Empire: Backyard to National Distributor
Rudo, a 26-year-old in Bulawayo, began making eco-friendly charcoal briquettes in her backyard using sawdust and recycled paper. She started selling at local markets, then scaled through Facebook. Her business caught the attention of a local supermarket chain in 2022. By 2025, she will supply 12 outlets across Zimbabwe. She now employs 9 people and partners with carpentry workshops for raw material.
These real-life stories show that with a solid idea, community insight, and persistence, Zimbabwean entrepreneurs can build thriving businesses, even starting small.
Conclusion:
Starting a business in Zimbabwe might come with its own set of challenges, but it also has tremendous potential for those who are willing and dedicated. As a youth looking for self-employment, a professional trying to transition, or a diaspora investor willing to invest back home, there is a business idea for every pocket and persuasion. Use this guide to discover, design, and begin building on your path to success. The future of Zimbabwe’s economy lies in the hands of bold entrepreneurs like you.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.
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