I took this pic just after Silozwe School, on the way to the shops…
Lines of stores such as these above are common in Zimbabwe at “centres” designated for shops by the councils. They open very early and close very late and most often charge exorbitant amounts for their products.
This one above is Silozwe business centre, the school a couple of kilometre up the road.
Bless their hearts. Adventure.
The lady was very beautiful – although a bit far away to get a closeup. I loved the bright colours – so African
Do the stores charge exorbitant amounts because they are the only place to shop for many of their customers?
Yes – its very far from large wholesalers to these kinds of shops and the roads are terrible. The further one is from a main centre, the more expensive the shops. This line of shops is about 80km from Bulawayo, about 10km or so on a very bad road. Often, fast moving items such as sugar will be heavily discounted to attract clientele. But “luxuries” like cigarettes and certain types of alcohol can attract large markups. (I don’t know what a packet of 20 cigarettes cost in the USA, but here, our cheapest boxed are .90c )
I don’t smoke but per/pack prices are $5-14, due to taxes to discourage you from getting cancer, or making sure you pay dearly for cancer. Of course it’s relative to how much you have to spend. .90c per pack could be a bigger portion of a person’s income there, than here. http://fairreporters.net/health/prices-of-cigarettes-by-state/
Thanks, atlist u reminder me home was born nd freeded there 5km away from those shops
Awesome – I guess you are no longer in Zim?
Awesome – enjoy
Yes nw in South Africa