Tino Talks Tech

Category: Zimbabwe

  • itel Eww, What’s That? My itel P65 Review

    itel Eww, What’s That? My itel P65 Review

    You know that feeling when you look at a new device, and you just don’t know how to feel about it? That’s exactly where I stand with the itel P65. When it comes to design, I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either. There’s a lot going on with this phone, some of it is clever, a lot of it feels a bit… borrowed. Let’s break this down.

    Design: Borrowed or Inspired?

    First off, can we talk about how much this phone “borrows” from other manufacturers? Now, don’t get me wrong, everyone does it, remember Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds 3 that look suspiciously like AirPods Pros). But itel? They didn’t just take one or two cues, they went on a full shopping spree and stuffed their cart with all the popular guys have to offer.

    The design itself isn’t ugly. It has this sleek, futuristic vibe with a slight Nothing Phone flair. Imagine if Nothing had a budget smartphone with a metallic, semi-industrial look, that’s what the itel P65 brings to the table. It’s almost like they wanted to create a “metallic Nothing Phone,” if that was even a thing.

    But it doesn’t stop there. They threw in what they call a “Dynamic Light Show”, which is essentially an LED under the flashlight that pulses with notifications and when you charge the phone. Does this sound familiar? Yeah, glyph lights… Now, a lot of Chinese manufacturers are doing this whole Dynamic Island knock-off trend, and itel couldn’t resist jumping in, although they have also done it with previous models as well, it’s still something they “borrowed”. I’m all for adapting to current trends, but it feels like they’ve put on too many “inspired” features without truly nailing any one of them.

    And wait… there’s more! They’ve also added a third button they’re calling the “Flex Button.” Now, we’ve seen something like this before on other “phones”, where it’s a customizable button for quick access to apps or shortcuts. Again, a solid idea from… if it wasn’t for the fact that it feels more like an attempt to stuff every popular feature into one device. The execution? Well, let’s just say it leaves a little to be desired.

    The Specs

    Despite all the flashy add-ons, the P65 is still a budget phone, and the specs reflect that. Here’s what we’re working with:

    • Network Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE
    • Dimensions: 165.9 x 77.3 x 7.9 mm, weighing 192.4g
    • Display: 6.7-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate, 720 x 1600 pixels (~262 PPI)
    • Operating System: Android 14, itel OS 14
    • Chipset: Unisoc T615 (12nm)
    • CPU: Octa-core (2×1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6×1.6 GHz Cortex-A55)
    • Memory Options: 128GB with 4GB/8GB RAM or 256GB with 6GB RAM
    • Camera: 50 MP main camera, 8 MP selfie camera
    • Battery: 5000 mAh, 18W wired charging (40% in 30 mins)
    • Extras: LED notification ring, “Dynamic Bar” light show, Flex Button, USB-C, 3.5mm jack, NFC (on the 256GB/6GB model)
    • Price: Roughly $120–$130 USD depending on the configuration

    The Processor: Unisoc T615

    This is where the conversation gets serious. Powered by the Unisoc T615, a chipset we typically see in budget devices(like this one), this phone’s performance is decent but not groundbreaking which is not something to sulk about since it’s a budget smartphone. With an octa-core configuration, it handles everyday tasks like browsing and social media without much fuss or at least they say it does. But if you’re looking to push it with more demanding apps, it might struggle. Any moderate gaming or multitasking across power-hungry applications? Yeah, that’s not happening smoothly on this chipset.

    The Unisoc T615 isn’t a terrible processor, it’s efficient and gets the job done for basic needs. But in 2024, when even budget phones are starting to push boundaries with performance, it feels like itel isn’t quite keeping up with the curve. And for a company trying to wow us with flashy design features, they could have done better in the performance department.

    Conclusion

    Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Wow, you really don’t like itel.” I’ve written about their phones several times before, and while many of those articles have leaned negative, it’s because I’ve been mostly disappointed with them. Here are a few of them:

    The truth is, I don’t hate the company. I don’t expect a $130 phone to blow me away,no one does, but when a company starts borrowing design ideas from everywhere and tries to cover up lackluster performance with gimmicks, it leaves a bad taste. Itel is in a unique position to dominate the budget phone market, but they seem more focused on being flashy than providing genuine innovation or substantial upgrades.

    It’s frustrating because I know they can do better. Their devices have potential, but they often fall short by trying to do too much without focusing on what truly matters: performance, user experience, and meaningful features.

    P.S. If you found this take helpful or entertaining, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter or allow notifications for more honest tech reviews.

  • No More Random Repair Shop Visits? Meet CircuitCure

    No More Random Repair Shop Visits? Meet CircuitCure

    Finding reliable solutions for computer problems can be a challenge, especially if you’re not exactly a tech ‘guru’. Now some of these tech ‘gurus’ might even extort your hard-earned cash from you for simple tasks, one guy recognised the gap and decided to fill it. Meet CircuitCure. CircuitCure steps in as a unique platform aiming to bridge the gap between DIY troubleshooting and professional repair services. And yes, it’s still growing, but it offers some interesting features that make it stand out.

    Key Features

    Device Diagnostics

    CircuitCure’s device diagnostics feature is pretty interesting. Typically, you’d expect a tool like this to automatically scan your system and give you all the necessary details. However, due to international data protection laws, CircuitCure can’t do that. Instead, you have to run your device’s built-in diagnostics tool first. The site then reads the data from that tool, but you’ll still need to manually input some information from the task manager to complete the diagnostic process and give you recommendations afterwards. It’s not as seamless as one might hope, but it’s a necessary compromise to keep your data safe and secure.

    Technician Locator

    For those times when a DIY fix just won’t cut it, CircuitCure offers a Technician Locator. This feature connects you with technicians who have signed up on the site. Right now, the pool of available technicians is relatively small, but it’s a promising feature that could save you a lot of time searching for help when things go wrong.

    Learning Hub

    CircuitCure isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s also about learning. The Learning Hub is a highly resource packed hub with interactive tutorials, quizzes, certifications, and even multimedia content. Whether you’re looking to solve a specific issue or just want to expand your technical knowledge, this hub offers a wealth of information to help you out.

    Simple Solutions for Non-Techies

    One of the best things about CircuitCure is that it doesn’t just cater to tech experts. It also offers simple solutions for common problems, tailored for those who might not be as comfortable around computers. You describe the issue you’re facing, and the platform guides you through potential fixes. This is perfect for anyone who needs a quick and easy solution without getting bogged down in technical details.

    Conclusion

    CircuitCure isn’t perfect yet, it still needs you as a user or as a technician for the circuit to be complete. It’s a practical tool that’s still growing but already shows a lot of potential. So whether you’re looking to fix a problem yourself, find a technician, or learn more about your device, CircuitCure has something to offer.

    P.S. If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech tips and updates!

  • The Current State of EVs in Zimbabwe

    The Current State of EVs in Zimbabwe

    The move towards EVs is a global trend, but how’s it shaping up in our neck of the woods? Today we’re looking at how the Zimbabwean market is taking this move towards EVs. Let’s break it down.

    The Push for Electric Vehicles in Zimbabwe

    Zimbabwe is slowly gearing up to join the global EV revolution. The government has introduced a draft electric vehicle policy aiming to cut down on the massive fuel import bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With a subsidy plan worth about $366.7 million until 2030, alongside tax incentives, they’re trying to make EVs more appealing.

    However, let’s be real – the adoption of EVs here faces significant challenges. From load shedding to high costs, and a community deeply attached to their combustion engines, there’s a lot to consider.

    Load Shedding and Power Supply Issues

    One of the biggest hurdles for EVs in Zimbabwe is the unreliable power supply. Frequent load shedding means that ensuring a consistent power supply for EV charging is tough. Zimbabwe generates less electricity than it consumes, leading to load shedding to manage the shortfall. For EV owners, the fear of not being able to charge their vehicles consistently is a major deterrent.

    Economic Constraints

    Another significant barrier is the high cost of EVs. Most Zimbabweans purchase vehicles for under $10,000, while a new EV costs between $15,000 and $20,000. Even with subsidies, these prices are out of reach for many. Additionally, the infrastructure to support EVs, like charging stations, is still developing, adding to the overall expense.

    Zimbabwe’s economic situation, marked by high inflation and limited access to foreign currency, exacerbates this issue. Both individuals and the government face difficulties in investing heavily in EV technology and infrastructure.

    Cultural Reluctance

    The Zimbabwean community is deeply rooted in the use of combustion engine vehicles. There’s a general reluctance to switch to EVs, partly due to perceptions about their performance and costs. Many believe that EVs are expensive to maintain and may not be up to the task of handling long distances or rough terrains often encountered in Zimbabwe.

    Infrastructure Challenges

    The infrastructure for supporting EVs in Zimbabwe is still in its infancy. Poor road conditions in many areas can be challenging for EVs, which typically have lower ground clearance than traditional vehicles. Moreover, the lack of charging stations, especially in urban areas, poses a significant challenge.

    Despite these hurdles, some progress is being made. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has registered a few EVs, and there’s an effort to set up more charging stations across the country. For example, Zuva Petroleum is partnering with local startups to roll out charging stations at their fuel garages.

    Government and Private Sector Initiatives

    The government has begun adding EVs to its vehicle fleet to promote uptake. The Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED) has already included 14 EVs, used at the CMED driving school and as shuttle cars at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.

    Private companies are also gearing up for the EV boom. Vaya, a ride-hailing service owned by our largest telecommunication company Econet Wireless, launched in 2020, offers EVs as part of a premium service for passenger and logistical services.

    The Road Ahead

    While there are concerted efforts by the government and private sectors to promote EV adoption, significant challenges remain. Addressing power reliability, reducing costs, changing public perceptions, and improving infrastructure are crucial steps that need to be taken to make EVs a viable option for the average Zimbabwean.

    Conclusion

    Zimbabwe is on the brink of an EV revolution, but it’s clear that we have a long road ahead. With the right policies, investments, innovations, and shifts in public perception, electric vehicles can become a feasible and sustainable option for many Zimbabweans. For now, we watch and wait as the nation takes these tentative but hopeful steps towards a greener future.

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    Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions about EVs in Zimbabwe. I’d love to hear from you!

  • Zimbabwe’s Oldest Marketplace: Classifieds

    Zimbabwe’s Oldest Marketplace: Classifieds

    classifieds logo

    Classifieds have been around for a very long time now, and they just might be the oldest marketplace we have in the country. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes Classifieds by Web Dev a unique and valuable platform for Zimbabweans.

    UI (User Interface)

    Navigating the Classifieds site is a breeze. The design is intuitive and visually appealing, with a clean layout that makes finding what you need straightforward. Categories are well-organized, and the search function is robust, allowing users to filter results effectively. Whether you’re looking for housing, groceries, the site’s user-friendly interface ensures you can find what you need without hassle. The site is packed with content, making it an ideal marketplace for you to shop. The variety of products available is one of the platform’s strong points, providing users with numerous options to choose from. One of the standout features of Classifieds is that the site is not filled with annoying ads. Instead, they have their own marketing service where people can pay for ad slots. This system is a great advantage as opposed to using Google Ads, as it ensures that the ads are relevant and non-intrusive. This also helps keep the site clean and user-friendly, enhancing the overall browsing experience.

    Performance

    The site’s performance is impressive, especially for its size. Loading times are quick, and the elements on the page load faster than many other marketplace websites. According to Google Pagespeed Insights, Classifieds scores well, meaning users won’t experience frustrating delays while browsing or making purchases. This performance edge is crucial for maintaining a pleasant user experience.

    Classifieds Pagespeed insights for mobile devices.
    Classifieds Pagespeed insights for desktop devices.

    Market Size

    The platform boasts a large and active user base, with many buyers and sellers regularly engaging in transactions. This extensive market size ensures that you’re likely to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a rare item or something more commonplace. The bustling activity on the site also means that sellers have a good chance of reaching a wide audience.

    Exclusive Feature: Dating Platform

    This is a Classifieds exclusive. I mean, we have seen others like Zimjolo try to do it and yes, I did mention this before in my previous article, but Classifieds really did it. It’s impressive. And like I mentioned before, the dating platform isn’t that famous, and I don’t think it will be because of how we do things here in Zimbabwe, but a great thanks to Classifieds for trying. It’s sort of like drifting away from their purpose, but it shows their willingness to innovate and try new things.

    Conclusion

    Classifieds is one of the marketplace websites we must utilize completely as Zimbabweans. The site’s safe, fast, and fully packed with products to buy from various sellers. Its user-friendly interface, strong performance, and extensive market size make it a top choice for online shopping. While the exclusive dating platform might not be a hit, the effort to diversify is commendable. As we continue to support and use platforms like Classifieds, we contribute to a more vibrant and connected marketplace in Zimbabwe and soon enough.

  • The New Pindula Marketplace: A Step Backwards?

    The New Pindula Marketplace: A Step Backwards?

    Pindula news logo

    Today, I want to talk about a significant change in the Zimbabwean online shopping scene, specifically concerning the Pindula Marketplace, and yes, this is not the first time. As we’re restarting the Zimbabwean Marketplace website series, I thought it would be great to restart with the ones we covered before. So some of you might remember it as a bustling hub for all sorts of goods, from clothing and electronics to homeware and more and like I said, I wrote an article about ‘that’ Pindula Marketplace. Well, those days are gone. Let’s dive into what’s happened to Pindula Marketplace and how it’s affecting us all.

    The Old Pindula Marketplace

    For those who aren’t familiar, the Pindula Marketplace used to be a vibrant platform where you could find a wide range of products. It was like our very own Amazon, sort of :). Sellers from all over Zimbabwe listed their items, and buyers had the convenience of shopping for anything and everything from the comfort of their homes. It was particularly handy for those who wanted to support local businesses. You could find unique items and get them delivered right to your doorstep. Ah, the good old days!

    What’s Changed?

    Fast forward to today, and Pindula Marketplace has undergone a radical transformation. Now, you can only buy gadgets, and they’re limited to a few specific brands: Samsung, itel, and Tecno. This drastic change happened last year, but I’m only writing about it now because I’m restarting my Zimbabwe Marketplace Series, revisiting platforms I had reviewed the first time around.

    Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:

    • Limited Product Range: Gone are the days when you could browse through a variety of products. Now, it’s strictly gadgets from Samsung, itel, and Tecno.
    • Simplified Purchase Process: You no longer need to create an account. To buy a gadget, all you need to do is enter your name, phone number, and address. However, there’s a catch – they only deliver within Harare. This lack of support for other cities is quite frustrating.
    • Payment Methods: You can pay using EcoCash, OneMoney, InnBucks, or opt for cash on delivery. A $5 delivery fee applies to every order.

    Final Thoughts

    The new Pindula Marketplace feels like a shadow of its former self. While it’s great that you can easily buy gadgets from top brands, the lack of variety, limited delivery area, and the overall reduction in service are hard to overlook. It’s a disappointing turn of events for what was once a great marketplace.

    Let’s hope that in the future, Pindula will consider broadening its offerings again and bringing back the vibrant marketplace that many of us came to rely on.

    Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates. Also, if you haven’t yet, enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!

    Zimbabwean Marketplace Series: Pindula Marketplace
  • E-commerce in Zimbabwe: A Fresh Look at the Local Marketplace Scene

    E-commerce in Zimbabwe: A Fresh Look at the Local Marketplace Scene

    An advertisement banner for Tisitano

    Remember my earlier articles about the top e-commerce platforms in Zimbabwe? Well, I’m back for another round, but this time, I’m taking a deeper dive.

    Why the change of heart? Let’s just say that I got complacent and ended up drifting away from my objective, and I wasn’t able to give these platforms the attention they deserve. But I’ve been following the e-commerce scene closely, and it’s clear that things have been evolving rapidly. New players have emerged, existing ones have evolved, and the overall landscape is far more dynamic than it was before.

    So, consider this a reboot of my original series. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be revisiting some of the platforms I covered previously and introducing you to some new ones. I’ll be looking at everything from user experience and product selection to payment options and delivery services. And of course, I’ll be sharing my honest opinions and insights along the way.

    To ensure a great assessment, I’ll be using a set of criteria to evaluate each platform(if applicable):

    • UI (User Interface): How easy is it to navigate the site? Is the design intuitive and visually appealing?
    • Performance: Does the site load quickly? Are there any glitches or bugs?
    • Accessibility: Is the site accessible to users with disabilities?
    • Market Size: How many buyers and sellers are active on the platform?
    • Product Selection: Is there a wide variety of products available?
    • Customer Support: Is customer support responsive and helpful?
    • Pricing: Are the fees and commissions reasonable?

    I’m excited to embark on this journey of rediscovering Zimbabwe’s e-commerce landscape. I hope you’ll join me as I share my findings and insights. And as always, if you have a marketplace you’d like me to review or additional criteria you’d like me to consider, feel free to reach out through the contact form on this site.

    Stay tuned for my first review, coming soon!

    Review Archive

    The New Pindula Marketplace: A Step Backwards?
    Zimbabwe’s Oldest Marketplace: Classifieds
  • Starlink Gets The Green Light to Operate in Zimbabwe

    Starlink Gets The Green Light to Operate in Zimbabwe

    Big news on Starlink’s usage in Zimbabwe: President Mnangagwa recently highlighted how vital innovation, science, and technology are for the country’s future. He posted on X, stressing how the government is all in on creating a tech-friendly environment.

    So Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink just got the green light from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ). This is huge because Starlink will bring high-speed, low-cost internet to Zimbabwe, especially the rural areas, thanks to their local partner, IMC Communications (Pvt) Ltd.

    Now, this is where it gets interesting. The same government that’s now rolling out the red carpet for Starlink had previously denied them access. What’s changed? Well, that’s anyone’s guess.

    President Mnangagwa is pushing for more foreign investments, branding Zimbabwe as the go-to spot for business. He congratulated Starlink and IMC Communications on this big step, seeing it as crucial for Zimbabwe’s goal of becoming a fully digital, upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

    So, while the government’s sudden change of heart is a bit of a mystery, it looks like Zimbabwe is gearing up for a digital revolution.

  • Zimbabwe’s Currency Evolution: EcoCash Leads the Shift to ZiG Notes

    Zimbabwe’s Currency Evolution: EcoCash Leads the Shift to ZiG Notes

    In a recent article, I discussed the introduction of the ZiG notes and the Zimbabwean government’s efforts to stabilize the economy through this new currency. Now, in a related development, EcoCash, a prominent mobile money service in Zimbabwe, has reportedly removed the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) from its platform, as observed by some users. Although this is not final, or the end of the ZWL regime within the mobile money service, it still rasies some concerns since we’re not sure about the current situation. Banks are also taking similar steps, reaching out to their customers with updates about the currency changes and the shift towards the ZiG notes. This is shown in a few images below:

    If this is not just a technical glitch, this move by EcoCash and is a clear indication of the financial sector’s readiness to embrace the new currency and its potential to bring about economic stability. It underscores the importance of the points raised in my previous article regarding the need for a secure and efficient transition to the ZiG notes, especially considering the concerns over the QR code security and the implications for mobile money and e-commerce.

    As we witness these rapid changes, it’s evident that the financial landscape in Zimbabwe is poised for a significant transformation. The success of this transition will largely depend on the collective efforts of the government, financial institutions, and the public to adapt to and support the new monetary system.

  • ZiG Notes: Zimbabwe’s Gold-Backed Currency

    ZiG Notes: Zimbabwe’s Gold-Backed Currency

    The Zimbabwean government has introduced the new ZiG notes as part of a broader strategy to stabilize the economy and restore public confidence in the national currency. The motive behind this move is to leverage the country’s gold reserves to back the new currency, thereby anchoring it to a tangible asset with intrinsic value. This approach is intended to provide a more stable and reliable means of payment compared to the previous currency, which had been subject to hyperinflation and volatility.

    The introduction of ZiG notes is also seen as a way to modernize the country’s financial system, promote economic growth, and attract investment by providing a currency that is less susceptible to external shocks and inflationary pressures. By tying the value of ZiG to the international gold price, the government aims to ensure that the currency retains its purchasing power and facilitates smoother domestic transactions.

    This initiative is not Zimbabwe’s first attempt to address its economic crisis through currency reform. However, the government is hopeful that the gold-backed ZiG notes will mark a turning point in the country’s economic fortunes.

    The imminent phase-out of the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) and the introduction of the new ZiG notes have indeed sparked a spectrum of reactions among the public. With the ZWL set to be phased out in just 21 days, there’s a palpable sense of urgency as people prepare to transition to the new currency. The mixed reviews from the public reflect a blend of cautious optimism and skepticism.

    On one hand, some citizens view the ZiG as a potential solution to the economic instability that has long affected Zimbabwe, hoping that the gold backing will provide the much-needed stability. On the other hand, there’s a significant portion of the populace that remains doubtful, given the country’s history with currency reforms.

    The change also has profound implications for the mobile money industry and e-commerce, sectors that have become increasingly important in Zimbabwe. The transition period will be critical for these industries to adapt to the new currency, ensuring that their systems can handle ZiG transactions without disrupting services.

    As a Zimbabwean, I share the mixed emotions of my fellow citizens. While I am hopeful for a positive outcome, I remain watchful of how the ZiG will be implemented and received in the coming days.

    The Implications: A Multifaceted Landscape

    The QR code on the ZiG specimens has been a topic of much discussion. While QR codes are a common security feature on banknotes, designed to combat counterfeiting, the simplicity of the code revealed on the ZiG specimens—merely displaying 

    Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe
    ZiG(value)
    Harare 2024

    has raised concerns. If the final bills retain this basic QR code, it could potentially be exploited by counterfeiters, undermining the currency’s integrity and the public’s trust in it.

    QR Code data from a zig200 note

    The implications of the new ZiG notes on mobile money and e-commerce are significant. The transition to ZiG is expected to impact the way transactions are conducted, with a shift towards digital currency that could streamline payments and reduce transaction costs. However, it also necessitates updates to existing mobile money platforms to accommodate the new currency and ensure secure transactions. For e-commerce, the introduction of ZiG could mean faster and more reliable payment processes, but it also requires robust cybersecurity measures to protect against fraud and maintain consumer confidence in online shopping. As we move forward, it’s essential for the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to address these security concerns and ensure that the digital infrastructure is ready to support the ZiG, fostering a safe and efficient economic environment.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the introduction of the ZiG notes by the Zimbabwean government is a significant economic development that has the potential to reshape the country’s financial landscape. While the move is driven by a desire to stabilize the economy and restore confidence in the national currency, it has been met with mixed reactions from the public.

    The implications for the mobile money and e-commerce sectors are profound. These industries must adapt quickly to the new currency, ensuring that their systems are secure and capable of handling ZiG transactions. Personally, I am cautiously optimistic about the potential of the ZiG notes to bring about positive change. However, I also recognize the challenges ahead and the importance of a well-thought-out implementation strategy to ensure the success of this currency reform.

  • The Digital Lifeline of Zimbabwe: WhatsApp

    The Digital Lifeline of Zimbabwe: WhatsApp

    In Zimbabwe, a country pulsing with vibrant culture and resilient people, WhatsApp has emerged as more than just a messaging app—it’s the digital lifeline that sustains businesses, fuels social connections, and empowers communication across all sectors.

    The Centrality of WhatsApp in Daily Life

    For the average Zimbabwean, the day begins with WhatsApp. It’s the platform where we exchange greetings, news, and start our daily hustle. It’s not just widespread; it’s indispensable. Let me paint you a picture. It’s early morning, and the sun is just peeking over the horizon. The first thing most of us do, even before the kettle is on for that crucial cup of tea, is check WhatsApp. It’s where we catch up on the latest news, share a joke to start the day, or get updates from a local business about a sale or a new product launch. It’s not just popular; it’s woven into the fabric of our society.

    Economic Impact and Business Reliance on WhatsApp

    From street vendors to corporate entities, WhatsApp is the go-to for customer engagement. It’s where deals are made, products are showcased, and services are rendered. The app’s data bundles, offered by all mobile network operators, are probably the most frequently purchased, making it the most accessible online marketplace. Businesses, big and small, have caught on to this trend. They’ve realized that to reach us, they need to be on WhatsApp. From the mom-and-pop store down the street to the big corporations, everyone’s using it to communicate with customers, take orders, and even set up online stores. It’s not just convenient; it’s essential.

    The Social Fabric

    WhatsApp groups serve as community hubs, where locals discuss everything from politics to football. It’s a tool that has seamlessly integrated into the social fabric of Zimbabwean life. I remember, though I can’t quite recall if it was 2017 or 2018, when the government, amidst a whirlwind of controversy, blocked WhatsApp IPs for a while. Suddenly, we were cut off from our go-to communication tool. It was during this blackout that many of us turned to Telegram, using it as a backup because of its similarity to WhatsApp. It was a stark reminder of how integral WhatsApp had become to our lives.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, WhatsApp is more than just an app in Zimbabwe; it’s a cornerstone of our daily interactions. It’s a platform that has transcended its original purpose, becoming a vital part of all industries, be it recreation, business, or social life. It’s hard to imagine life without it, and frankly, I don’t think any of us would want to. WhatsApp is, quite simply, the pulse of Zimbabwe.