Harare Buzzes with Christmas Rush Amid Economic Challenges

Harare’s streets were alive with activity as the festive season neared, despite economic hurdles. Shoppers and travelers filled the city, eager for holiday celebrations.

The city center was a hive of activity, with people dashing to procure last-minute Christmas gifts and apparel, alongside appointments for stylish hairdos to sparkle during the holidays.

Long lines at banks were common, as individuals sought cash to spend in areas where electronic payments were not an option. Money transfer services saw similar crowds, handling diaspora remittances.

Vendors had taken over pavements in the central business district, creating a maze for pedestrians trying to navigate through the congestion, inadvertently providing cover for pickpockets.

The surge in shopping led to stock shortages in many stores, with business owners like Ms. Chenai Wimbo reporting unprecedented customer volumes. “We’ve been swamped since the middle of December,” she noted.

Tariro, a shop assistant, shared her fatigue but also the financial boon for her employer, highlighting the high demand for children’s clothing as Christmas neared.

The journey from central Harare to Mbare bus terminus, usually quick, stretched into hours due to holiday traffic. Vehicles packed the roads, each trying to reach the overloaded bus station.

At the terminus, chaos reigned as touts vied for passengers, and some bus companies hiked fares. A trip to Buhera escalated from US$10 to US$15, reflecting the seasonal surge.

Masvingo and Ngundu routes saw similar fare increases, with travelers like Ms. Sarudzai Chaipa finding the options limited and costly. “I’m hoping for a direct bus to avoid extra charges,” she explained.

However, not all routes saw fare hikes; Chinhoyi and Bulawayo maintained their regular prices, offering some relief to budget-conscious travelers.

A bus driver on the Harare-Karoi route justified the fare increase, pointing out the extra fuel consumption due to holiday luggage. “It’s the nature of the season,” he remarked.

Pushcart operators found a lucrative market in the chaos, charging premium rates for their services in navigating the crowded streets with luggage.

Tindo, a pushcart operator, aimed high, hoping the congestion would continue to benefit his business. “The further from the stop, the better for us,” he said optimistically.

At Simon Muzenda Street, fare adjustments were also evident, especially with pirate taxis. Touts teased passengers about potential fare increases if they hesitated, adding to the holiday hustle and bustle.