How to Earn Money Online in Zimbabwe

Making money online in Zimbabwe isn't some sort of "get rich quick" scheme. There are many posts you will find online about how to earn money in Zimbabwe, but none of them come close to giving you real and actionable advice.

If I am to put it bluntly, there are two steps to this. First, find what skills you already have and what you're good at. Then, find jobs based around those skills. But what kind of jobs can you do? Where can you find them? And how do you make sure you land the right online jobs in Zimbabwe to make good money? We'll answer those details in this post, keep reading.

How is Zimbabwe’s Online Job Market?

According to recent statistics, Zimbabwe has seen a significant rise in internet usage, with over 38.4% of the population having access to the internet. While urban areas like Harare and Bulawayo have better connectivity, rural areas are also witnessing improvements. However, challenges like intermittent power supply and high data costs still exist, which can affect online activities. When you plan to earn money online in Zimbabwe, this is something that you need to keep in mind.

Job Vacancies and Recruitment in Zimbabwe

So here’s the good news. There are many online job boards you can find.

Companies directly hire on Zimbajob.com. There are more than 1079 future job openings. You can find jobs related to specific keywords and you can post your CV so recruiters can find you. Just make sure your CV is ATS-friendly before submitting because most job searchers fumble there.

There are jobs by different industries as well, all online, such as telemarketing, services, marketing and communication, IT, audit, accounting, R&D, etc. Another site we recommend is Vacancy Mail. You can work from home anywhere and enjoy flexible schedules. There is data entry work from home jobs available. You can browse jobs by different regions in Zimbabwe like Bulawayo Jobs, Matabeleland North jobs, Malawi jobs, and so on. Check out their featured job postings where the company posts details. Some online jobs might be hybrid or full-time. The Muskurahat Foundation also offers many paid work from home internships. These are a great way to get a stipend, certificate, and break into new job roles while working from home.

Challenges of Earning Money Online in Zimbabwe

Working online from Zimbabwe brings freedom and flexibility, but you will encounter hurdles that can slow your progress. From unreliable utilities to payment roadblocks and stiff international competition, these issues demand proactive solutions. You can navigate them by planning ahead and tapping into the right tools:

• You face frequent power cuts and slow internet speeds that interrupt tasks. Video calls can drop without warning, and large file uploads may stall. You will need a backup power source like a solar charger or an inverter and affordable data packages that suit your workload.
• Sending and receiving payments abroad often means high fees and long waits. Bank transfers can eat into your earnings through conversion charges. You can look into services such as Payoneer or Wise for faster transfers and lower fees.
• Local banks impose strict requirements to open USD accounts or carry out foreign transactions. Forms and verification steps can be lengthy, and minimum withdrawal amounts may be high. You will need to manage your cash flow carefully and combine mobile money with international platforms.
• You compete with freelancers worldwide who may charge less. Clients often pick providers with established track records and glowing reviews. You should build a strong portfolio, collect testimonials early on, and deliver consistent quality.
• Access to advanced training and certification programs can be limited or costly. Some courses require payment methods not available locally. You can join free online tutorials, peer study groups, or community-driven workshops to stay current.

Best Ways to Earn Money Online in Zimbabwe in 2025

Here are some of the best ways to earn money online in Zimbabwe:

1. Dropshipping

You can start a dropshipping business without keeping inventory or handling shipping. When customers place orders on your online store, your supplier ships products directly to them. This model works well because you don't need large upfront capital investment.

Zimbabwe has local dropshipping opportunities through suppliers like Seasonsway, which offers branded fashion, electronics, mobile accessories, and home appliances. They provide professional packaging, discounted rates, and 7-14 day express shipping. 

How to Get Started

For international products, Spocket stands out as one of the best platforms with US and EU suppliers. Spocket offers 24/7 VIP customer support, print on demand customization, branded invoicing, and over 100 million winning products. You can start with their 14-day free trial and they integrate with popular platforms like WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Amazon, and Wix.

Spocket allows cross-listing and cross-selling products to increase average cart value. For example, you could bundle a mobile phone case with a wireless charger. Their DropGenius AI store generator helps you launch stores quickly, and Logome creates brand logos. You can dropship organic non-perishable foods, Korean skincare products, cleaning supplies, and home decor. They offer 8 months free or 75% off annual plans for new users.

2. Copywriting

Copywriting involves creating persuasive written content for websites, advertisements, social media, and email campaigns. You'll write sales pages, product descriptions, blog posts, and marketing materials that convince readers to take action.

Zimbabwe has growing demand for copywriters as businesses expand online. Platforms like Truelancer connect Zimbabwean copywriters with international clients, offering rates around $5-30 per hour. You can specialize in different types of copywriting - direct response, content marketing, email sequences, or sales funnels.

How to Get Started

Building a strong portfolio is key to success. Start by creating sample pieces in different niches like health, technology, or finance. Study successful sales pages and email campaigns to understand what converts readers into buyers. Many copywriters begin by offering services on local business WhatsApp groups or Facebook pages before moving to international platforms.

You need basic computer skills, internet access, and strong English writing ability. Research skills help you understand target audiences and create compelling messages. Payment processing through PayPal or Payoneer allows you to receive international payments. Some copywriters earn $500-2000 monthly once they build relationships with regular clients. The key is consistent practice and continuous learning about consumer psychology and persuasion techniques.

3. Surveys

Taking online surveys offers an easy way to earn extra cash, but you need to understand the financial incentives and earning ranges. In Zimbabwe, survey platforms like Triaba pay between $0.13 to $2.25 USD per completed survey, with a withdrawal threshold of $10 USD. SagaPoll, specifically designed for African users, offers mobile money and bank transfer payments, making it accessible for Zimbabweans.

Survey activities include sharing opinions about products, watching videos, reviewing items, and participating in market research. Product testing opportunities through Toluna Influencers allow you to try new items before launch. Video watching and completing questionnaires provide additional earning methods beyond traditional surveys.

How to Get Started

When you sign up for survey platforms, you'll provide demographic information like age, location, and interests. You're eligible to receive surveys immediately after registration, but age restrictions typically require you to be 18 or older. You'll need an Android smartphone with internet access and spare time each day to answer questions.

SagaPoll complies with GDPR regulations to safeguard personal information. Ensure you complete questionnaires within specified time limits. Survey platforms like Triaba offer gift vouchers from Econet, NetOne, or Telecel as alternatives to cash payments.

4. Online Tutoring

Online tutoring allows you to teach students remotely using video conferencing platforms. You can offer lessons in subjects like English, mathematics, sciences, or specialized skills. Zimbabwe has growing demand for online education due to improved internet connectivity and changing learning preferences.

Spires connects Zimbabwean tutors with international students, paying from £30 per class. Clad Online School offers Cambridge and ZIMSEC curriculum support locally. Preply provides flexible scheduling where you set your own rates and availability. University students and graduates can teach subjects they excelled in during their studies.

How to Get Started

You need reliable internet connection, a computer or smartphone with camera, and expertise in your subject area. Teaching certificates or degrees help build credibility, but practical knowledge and good communication skills are most important. Many tutors start with friends and family before expanding to online platforms.

Equipment requirements include a quiet learning environment, good lighting, and basic presentation tools like whiteboards or screen sharing software. Payment methods vary by platform - international sites typically pay through PayPal or bank transfers, while local platforms may offer mobile money options.

English tutors serving international students often earn more than those teaching local curricula. Mathematics, sciences, and computer programming typically command higher rates than general subjects.

5. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting other companies' products and earning commissions on successful sales. You share unique tracking links through your website, social media, or direct marketing, and receive payment when people purchase through your links.

Zimbabwe has several local affiliate programs. ZimHero's program offers up to 30% commission on web hosting, domain registration, and SSL certificates. AffiliateZim provides training and dashboard access for promoting digital products and services locally. SMEAZ offers multi-level marketing with commissions down to five levels on products sold through their online shop.

How to Get Started

You can promote anything from books and electronics to software and online courses. Social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram work well for affiliate marketing in Zimbabwe's connected communities.

Share honest reviews, compare different options, and only recommend items you'd personally use. Email marketing through newsletters helps nurture relationships and increase conversion rates. You'll need patience since affiliate income typically builds over time rather than providing immediate returns.

6. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistants provide remote administrative, technical, or creative support to businesses and entrepreneurs. Tasks include email management, scheduling, data entry, social media management, customer service, and basic bookkeeping. Zimbabwe's English-speaking workforce and competitive rates make it attractive for international clients.

Services you can offer include diary management, travel bookings, content creation, CRM maintenance, and research tasks. Specialized skills like bookkeeping with Xero or Sage, social media advertising, or web design command higher rates. Many virtual assistants start with general administrative tasks before developing specialized expertise. Payment processing through PayPal, Payoneer, or international bank transfers allows you to receive foreign currency. Some VAs work part-time earning $200-500 monthly while others build full-time businesses generating $1000+ monthly. 

How to Get Started

Truelancer and Freelancer connect Zimbabwean VAs with global clients. You can also find work through LinkedIn networking or by directly contacting small businesses. Rates typically range from $5-20 per hour depending on your skills and client location.

Equipment needed includes a reliable computer, stable internet connection, and basic software like Microsoft Office. Communication tools like Skype, Zoom, and project management platforms help coordinate with clients across different time zones.

7. Stock Photography and Videography

Stock photography involves capturing and selling images that businesses, marketers, and content creators can license for their projects. You can earn money from photos you already have or create new content specifically for stock markets. Photographers can earn anywhere from $20 to $700 USD per photo depending on exclusivity, demand, and licensing terms.

Do You Have to Invest Anything?

You need a decent camera (even high-quality smartphone cameras work), basic photo editing skills, and understanding of what buyers want. Images need proper lighting, composition, and technical quality to be accepted. You'll also need to add relevant keywords and descriptions to help buyers find your content.

Some photographers spend $1000 monthly on studio rent, models, and equipment, while others work with minimal budgets using natural lighting and available subjects. Post-processing takes time but improves earning potential. Popular photos can generate passive income for years through repeated licensing.

How to Get Started

You can upload photos to platforms like Shutterstock, Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Canva's contributor program. Zimbabwe's diverse landscapes, cultural events, wildlife, and urban scenes provide unique content opportunities. Travel photography, food images, business concepts, and lifestyle shots typically perform well in stock markets.

8. Online Coaching and Consultancy Services

Online coaching involves helping clients achieve specific goals through structured guidance and support. You can offer life coaching, business consulting, fitness training, career guidance, or specialized skills development. Zimbabwe has qualified professionals who can serve both local and international markets through video conferencing platforms.

Popular coaching niches include executive coaching, leadership development, entrepreneurship, personal finance, health and wellness, and academic tutoring. Business consultants help companies with strategy, marketing, operations, or digital transformation. 

Should You Get Certified?

Certification helps build credibility though it's not always required. ICF (International Coaching Federation) credentials are recognized globally. You'll need strong communication skills, empathy, and ability to ask powerful questions that help clients discover solutions.

How to Get Started

You can showcase your professional experience, education, or specialized knowledge to build a coaching practice or community online. Introductory coaches might charge $25-50 per session while experienced specialists command $100-300+ hourly. You can offer packages, monthly retainers, or group programs for different price points.

Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams can help you conduct virtual coaching sessions. You can also create online courses, group coaching programs, or membership communities for scalable income. Many coaches use websites, social media, and networking to attract clients.

9. Mobile and Web App Development

Mobile and web app development involves creating software applications for smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. Zimbabwe has growing demand for custom apps as businesses digitize their operations. You can work on local projects or serve international clients through freelance platforms.

There’s a lot of demand for you if you build Android apps using Kotlin or Java, iOS apps with Swift, web applications using React or Angular, and cross-platform solutions with Flutter or React Native. Expertise with technologies like blockchain, IoT, and progressive web apps offer great opportunities.

What Skills Do You Need?

Skills needed include programming languages, database design, user interface development, and project management. You can learn through online courses, coding bootcamps, or computer science education. Building a portfolio with sample projects demonstrates your capabilities to potential clients.

How to Get Started

Truelancer, Upwork, and direct client outreach provide work opportunities. Rates vary from $10-50+ per hour depending on complexity and experience level. Many developers start with simple websites or basic mobile apps before advancing to complex enterprise applications.

Equipment requirements include a reliable computer, development software, and testing devices. Payment processing through international platforms allows earning in foreign currencies while building technical expertise for long-term career growth.

10. Try Forex Trading

Forex trading involves buying and selling currencies to profit from exchange rate fluctuations. In Zimbabwe, forex trading is 100% legal and regulated by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), though specific compliance requirements exist for transparency and consumer protection.

You can trade major currency pairs like USD/EUR, USD/GBP, or regional pairs involving South African Rand. Zimbabwe's economic conditions create opportunities for currency speculation, but also increase risks. Many Zimbabweans use forex as a hedge against local currency instability.

How to Get Started

International brokers like Wealthway FX provide access to global markets through platforms like MetaTrader 4 and 5. However, Zimbabwe lacks a fully regulated local forex framework, so you must work with internationally licensed brokers. Be cautious of unregulated platforms promising unrealistic returns.

Starting requirements include capital (minimum varies by broker), reliable internet connection, and trading education. Many beginners lose money due to poor risk management and lack of proper training. Consider starting with demo accounts before risking real money. You'll need to understand technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and risk management principles.

11. Content Writing

Content writing involves creating articles, blog posts, website copy, social media content, and marketing materials for businesses and publications. Zimbabwe has many talented writers who can serve both local and international markets through various online platforms.

You can specialize in different content types - SEO articles, technical writing, copywriting, journalism, or creative content. Niches like health, technology, finance, and business typically pay higher rates than general topics. Many writers start broadly before specializing based on interests and market demand.

How to Get Started

You can try sites like Fiverr and post your own gigs online to attract clients. Local opportunities exist through Zimbabwean publications, business websites, and marketing agencies. Rates typically range from $5-25 per hour or $0.05-0.30 per word depending on expertise and client budget. You can also check out Reddit’s writer job threads and try AngelList. Some writers earn $200-1000+ monthly depending on client base and project volume. 

Skills needed include excellent English writing, research abilities, SEO understanding, and adaptability to different brand voices. You should understand target audiences and create content that engages readers while achieving business objectives. Also learn how to work with AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity for doing research.

Equipment requirements are minimal - computer, internet connection, and word processing software. Many successful writers use free tools like Google Docs and Grammarly for editing assistance.

12. Google AdSense

Google AdSense allows you to earn money by displaying advertisements on your website or YouTube channel. When visitors click on ads or view them, you receive a share of the advertising revenue. Zimbabwe is an approved AdSense country, though earnings per click are lower than in higher-income regions.

Zimbabwe's AdSense CPC (cost per click) averages around $0.06-0.15 USD, compared to $0.68 in the United States. However, you can still earn meaningful income with sufficient traffic volume. The payment threshold is $100 USD, which gets deposited into your bank account or sent via check.

For websites, you need quality content that attracts visitors through search engines or social media. Topics like technology, finance, health, and education typically generate higher ad revenues than entertainment or general content. You must comply with AdSense policies regarding content quality, traffic sources, and click behavior.

Earn via YouTube Monetization

YouTube monetization requires 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours within 12 months. You can then enable ads on your videos and earn from viewer engagement. Zimbabwean YouTubers can monetize their channels and receive payments in USD.

Traffic location affects earnings significantly - visitors from US, UK, Australia generate higher ad revenues than local traffic. Creating content that appeals to international audiences increases earning potential.

Many AdSense publishers earn $50-500 monthly depending on traffic volume, content quality, and audience demographics. AdSense integration allows you to receive payments once you reach the $100 threshold. Many Zimbabwean creators use FBC MasterCard to withdraw earnings in USD.

CPM (cost per thousand views) varies significantly by audience location. Views from Zimbabwe generate lower ad revenue than international traffic. However, viral content or international audiences can produce substantial income - some creators earn $800-2000 monthly from their channels.

13. Freelancing

Freelancing allows you to offer various services to clients worldwide while working independently. Zimbabwe has skilled professionals in writing, graphic design, programming, digital marketing, translation, and virtual assistance. Multiple platforms connect Zimbabwean freelancers with international opportunities.

Popular freelancing platforms include Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, Truelancer, and the Himalayas App. You can also find work through LinkedIn networking, local business communities, or direct outreach to potential clients. Building profiles on multiple platforms increases visibility and job opportunities.

How Much Can You Earn?

Services in high demand include content writing ($5-25/hour), graphic design ($10-30/hour), web development ($15-50/hour), digital marketing, data entry, transcription, and virtual assistance. Specialized skills typically command higher rates than general services. Earnings range from $200-2000+ monthly depending on skills, client base, and time commitment.

You will require professional communication, meeting deadlines consistently, and delivering quality work that exceeds client expectations. Building positive reviews and repeat client relationships leads to stable income growth.

How to Receive International Payments as a Freelancer in Zimbabwe?

All freelancers need reliable internet connections and communication tools like Skype or Zoom for client interaction.

Payment processing through PayPal, Payoneer, or platform-specific systems allows receiving international payments. Many freelancers start part-time while employed elsewhere, then transition to full-time once income stabilizes. 

Payment Processing Solutions for Zimbabwe

PayPal has limited functionality but works for some platforms. Payoneer provides virtual US bank accounts for receiving payments from freelance platforms and international clients. Wise (formerly TransferWise) offers multi-currency accounts with local banking details for various countries.

Mobile money services like EcoCash integrate with some platforms for local payments. International wire transfers work but often involve high fees and long processing times. Cryptocurrency payments are growing but require technical understanding and careful handling of volatile assets.

How to Earn Money Online in Zimbabwe and Get Started

Begin by assessing your existing skills and interests. Research platforms relevant to your chosen field and create professional profiles with portfolio samples. Start with lower-paying projects to build reviews and experience before pursuing higher-value opportunities.

Set realistic income expectations - most people need 3-6 months to build sustainable online income. Treat online work professionally with dedicated workspace, scheduled hours, and systematic client communication. Continuous learning through online courses, tutorials, and industry resources helps improve skills and earning potential.

Consider starting part-time while maintaining other income sources until online earnings stabilize. Network with other Zimbabwean online workers through social media groups for advice, collaboration, and moral support.

You can earn money online in Zimbabwe but you have to be persistent, patient, and professional. Continuously adapt to market opportunities while building valuable skills that serve clients effectively.

Conclusion

So now you know how to earn money online in Zimbabwe. Don’t lose hope or get overwhelmed. Start with the basics. Build your skills, make a portfolio, and stay positive. Keep applying for the jobs you like and match for. There are many AI tools that can help you put yourself out there. Even Open AI is launching a job matching platform soon which will be way better than LinkedIn, so you can look forward to it and try that out as well.