An Analysis of the Survival Strategies Adopted in Times of Economic Downturn: The Case of Retrenchees in Bindura, Zimbabwe

The study explored the survival strategies used by retrenched employees during the period 2013 to 2015, when Zimbabwes economy is experiencing arguably its greatest challenge. Motivation for the study was premised on the need to share the former employees experience as a platform upon which a resolve to tackle the root causes of the economic crisis. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, the study revealed that most of the retrenchees in Bindura now survive on gold panning, merchandising as well as subsistence farming. The study also shows that despite the harsh economic climate in the country, most retrenchees prefer to stay put rather than emigrate to other countries. The study calls on responsible authorities to expedite the measures that would see the country reversing the current economic environment. In the meantime, funding agencies should also consider and prioritise retrenchees in their funding commitments to ameliorate their suffering