Economist Podcasts Scarcely surviving: Zimbabwe
Aug 19, 2019
John McDermott, Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Zimbabwe's dire situation, detailing the severe shortages of essential resources and deepening political instability. James Yan, Beijing correspondent, discusses the challenges facing Chinese graduates in a competitive job market, highlighting the disconnect between education and employment. Lastly, Anna Lankes presents an innovative Dutch housing scheme pairing students with seniors, showcasing how intergenerational living combats loneliness and fosters meaningful connections.
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Water Shortages in Chitungwiza
- John McDermott visited Chitungwiza, a town near Harare, at night.
- He found residents queuing at a well due to water shortages, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Zimbabwe's Converging Crises
- Zimbabwe faces multiple crises: lack of clean water, limited power, fuel scarcity, and a looming food crisis.
- John McDermott observes the country is experiencing a convergence of several emergencies at once.
Zimbabwe's Economic Roots
- Zimbabwe's economic woes stem from a chronic shortage of hard currency, hindering essential purchases.
- President Mnangagwa's economic policies haven't fostered trust, exacerbating the crisis.