By Vimbai Kadzura Mademutsa
A cross section of Zimbabweans believe fellow countrymen are not taking Covid-19 seriously, a recent research has shown.
This sentiment was echoed by 88% of adult Zimbabweans who participated in research undertaken by a local consultancy, Topline Research Solutions (TRS).
Insights gathered highlighted that people in most areas are not heading the call by health authorities to observe social distancing.
“For most this is because of the perception that COVID-19 is a virus affecting the elite and thriving in developed countries with cold weather,” TRS said in a statement.
“Despite saying that coronavirus is not being taken seriously, most individuals (79%) stated that they were getting sufficient information about COVID 19.”
Multiple platforms were cited as sources of information with social media being at the fore front as well as other traditional media like radio.
Information that most felt was at their disposal is the symptoms of the virus and ways it can be prevented including frequent handwashing and social distancing.
Concern was, however, raised on insufficient information about where people should go when suspecting they have contracted the virus.
Working from home, prayer, social media among top three things occupying Zimbabweans in lockdown
Since the survey was conducted when the 21 day lockdown had come into effect, the research unearthed that there has been a general shift in behaviour among Zimbabweans.
“Working from home, prayer and engaging in social media were the top three things most people have been involved in as they are locked in doors,” the research noted.
Though there is uncertainty on when life will normalise working from home has become a norm for Zimbabweans who have traditionally restricted work to their offices/work stations.
Those working from home highlighted that in instances were the business has the capacity they are equipped with tools to ensure their work schedule is not disrupted while working at home.
The research also pointed out that there are those who have become less involved in activities like grocery shopping and exercise.
This was in order to avoid areas were people usually tend to congregate.
Citizens shared their suggestions to the government and businesses.
To avoid the spread of coronavirus, a portion of Zimbabweans (49%) said the government needs to enforce the lockdown. It was, however, highlighted that basics like food and water should be secured for the population mainly the vulnerable.
Businesses were given the responsibility of buying medical equipment including ventilators and personal protective clothing for medical personnel as well as providing food for the vulnerable.
The research which was conducted through an online platform involved a sample size of 200 Zimbabweans above the age of 18. Links for the survey were shared across the country’s ten provinces though the sample was biased towards Harare as it has a larger population size.
About Topline Research Solutions (TRS) – TRS is a research consultant with offices in Harare and Johannesburg as well as presence in 23 other African countries. To get more insights from the research email Patson- patson@topline.co.za ; Brian – brian@toplineres.com; Vimbai – vimbai@toplineres.com