As Zimbabwe approaches the 2023 election, the country is facing a number of pressing issues that have a significant impact on the lives of its citizens. These include prostitution, unemployment, a rise in drug abuse, poverty, the dilapidation of healthcare, the collapse of infrastructure (schools, roads, and electricity shortages), a lack of affordable housing, a lack of adequate clean water, and rampant corruption.

Prostitution:
Prostitution has become a growing problem in Zimbabwe, particularly in urban areas. The main drivers of prostitution are poverty and unemployment, as many individuals are forced to resort to this form of income generation in order to survive. The lack of economic opportunities and social services also contributes to the problem, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Unemployment:
Unemployment is a major issue in Zimbabwe, with official estimates putting the unemployment rate at around 90%. This high rate of unemployment is driven by a number of factors, including a lack of investment in the economy, a lack of diversification, and a lack of infrastructure and services. The lack of jobs also contributes to poverty and social unrest, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Drug Abuse:
Drug abuse is also a major problem in Zimbabwe, with the use of drugs such as marijuana and cocaine becoming increasingly prevalent. This is driven by a number of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of social services. The lack of economic opportunities and social services also contributes to the problem, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Poverty:
Poverty is a major issue in Zimbabwe, with the majority of the population living below the poverty line. This is driven by a number of factors, including a lack of investment in the economy, a lack of diversification, and a lack of infrastructure and services. The lack of economic opportunities and social services also contributes to the problem, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.
Dilapidation of Healthcare:

The healthcare system in Zimbabwe is in a state of disrepair, with a lack of funding, resources, and personnel. This has led to a lack of access to basic healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, and a high rate of preventable illnesses and deaths. The lack of investment in the healthcare system is driven by a number of factors, including a lack of funding and a lack of political will.

Collapse of Infrastructure:
The collapse of infrastructure in Zimbabwe, including schools, roads, and electricity shortages, is a major problem that affects the daily lives of citizens. This is driven by a lack of investment in the country’s infrastructure and a lack of maintenance and repair. The lack of infrastructure also contributes to the problem of unemployment, as businesses are not able to operate and grow due to a lack of basic services.

Lack of Affordable Housing:
The lack of affordable housing in Zimbabwe is a major problem that affects many citizens. This is driven by a lack of investment in the housing sector, a lack of land and resources, and a lack of government programs and policies aimed at addressing the issue. The lack of affordable housing also contributes to poverty and social unrest, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Lack of Adequate Clean Water:
The lack of adequate clean water in Zimbabwe is a major problem that affects many citizens. This is driven by a lack of investment in the country’s water infrastructure, a lack of maintenance and repair, and a lack of government programs and policies aimed at addressing the issue. The lack of clean water also contributes to poverty and social unrest, as individuals are not able to access the resources they need to improve their lives.

Rampant Corruption:
Rampant corruption is a major problem in Zimbabwe, with corruption affecting all levels of government and society. This is driven by a lack of accountability and transparency, a lack of effective anti-corruption measures, and a culture of impunity among those in power. Corruption also contributes to the other issues facing the country, as it undermines the ability of government to effectively address poverty, unemployment, and other social problems, and can lead to resources being misallocated and siphoned off for personal gain.

Who is Responsible?
The issues facing Zimbabwe are complex and multifaceted, and are the result of a combination of factors, including historical legacies of colonialism, economic policies, and political decisions. However, it is important to note that the government and those in positions of power are ultimately responsible for addressing these issues and creating policies that improve the lives of citizens.

Who is to Blame?
Blame can be placed on a number of actors, including historical colonizers, past and present government leaders, and international organizations that have failed to provide adequate support and resources. However, it is important to recognize that blame and accountability should not be solely placed on any one group or individual, and that solutions must come from a collective effort.

Who is Accountable?
Those in positions of power, including government officials, should be held accountable for addressing the issues facing Zimbabwe and for creating policies that improve the lives of citizens. Furthermore, international organizations and external actors have a responsibility to ensure that they are providing adequate support and resources to address these issues. Ultimately, it is the citizens of Zimbabwe who should hold their leaders accountable for creating a better future for the country.

The issues facing Zimbabwe are complex and multifaceted, and require a comprehensive and holistic approach to address. It is important to recognize the historical legacies and ongoing external factors that contribute to the current problems, while also holding those in power accountable for addressing these issues and creating policies that improve the lives of citizens. Ultimately, solutions must come from a collective effort, including government, civil society and citizens working together.

As the 2023 elections in Zimbabwe approaches, voters should consider a number of factors when making their decisions.
Firstly, voters should take into account the track record of the candidates and parties running for office in terms of addressing the issues facing the country, including prostitution, unemployment, drug abuse, poverty, the dilapidation of healthcare, the collapse of infrastructure, lack of affordable housing, lack of adequate clean water, and rampant corruption.

Voters should also consider the candidates’ and parties’ plans and proposals for addressing these issues, and how they align with the needs and priorities of the electorate. They should also pay attention to the candidates’ and parties’ track record of transparency, accountability, and honesty.
Additionally, voters should also consider the representation of diverse groups in their decisions, including women, youth, and marginalized communities. They should look for candidates who are committed to addressing issues of representation and inclusion in their policies and plans.
Lastly, voters should also take into account the candidates’ and parties’ commitments to democratic principles and the rule of law. They should ensure that candidates and parties are committed to free and fair elections, transparency, and accountability.

In light of all these considerations, voters should also be prepared to hold their elected leaders accountable for their actions and for addressing the issues facing the country. This includes participating in peaceful protests, and holding their leaders accountable through democratic means such as voting in subsequent elections and engaging in constructive dialogue with elected officials. Additionally, voters should also be informed and educated about the electoral process, the candidates and parties running for office, and the issues facing the country. They should also exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process.

It is also important for the voters to be aware of the possible manipulation of the electoral process, and to be vigilant against any form of electoral malpractice. They should report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities and ensure that their vote is counted accurately.
Furthermore, voters should also be aware of their rights as citizens, and should not be afraid to speak out against any form of violation of their rights. They should also be aware of their rights to a free and fair electoral process, and to a free and fair press.

In conclusion, as the 2023 elections in Zimbabwe approaches, voters should consider the track record of the candidates and parties, their plans and proposals, representation of diverse groups, commitments to democratic principles and rule of law, and the possible manipulation of electoral process. They should also be prepared to hold their elected leaders accountable for their actions, be informed, educated and exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process.