Mapping patterns of financial distress among consumers in Zimbabwe

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a mapping of financial distress among consumers in Zimbabwe. To inform policy, it nuances the understanding of the level of financial distress and the precise location of the most distressed consumers in the country. Design/methodology/approach The study mapped financial distress among consumers on the ten provinces of Zimbabwe using credit repayment behavioural indicators from retail consumer loans data. Findings Findings showed widespread financial distress among consumers across the country with Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South provinces being the most affected, whilst Harare and Manicaland were better off. The study underscores the urgent need for an overhaul of the Zimbabwe’s haemorrhaging economy in order to restore dignity among consumers and relieve them of financial hardships. Originality/value The paper provides vital input for policy. Policy measures aimed at invigorating sustained economic growth, troubleshooting and revamping productivity, enhancing external competitiveness and creating employment across the country are desperately needed. Also, there is need for a functional consumer education and counselling entity to roll-out financial literacy programmes and counselling financially distressed obligors across this economically beleaguered country.