Job Scams Target Zimbabwean Job Seekers Amid Rising Unemployment
Zimbabwean job seekers are increasingly falling victim to fraudulent recruitment agents who promise employment as security guards, nurse aides and shop attendants, only to disappear after collecting fees.
The scams, which are spreading rapidly through social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook, exploit high unemployment levels and desperation for work. Victims report being asked to pay “registration,” “training,” or “processing” fees ranging from a few US dollars to several hundred, with no job materialising afterward.
In many cases, the fraudsters advertise positions that require little or no qualifications, making the offers especially attractive to young people and those who have been unemployed for long periods.
Some scammers go as far as renting offices, issuing fake appointment letters or using the names of legitimate companies to appear credible.
Healthcare-related scams are also on the rise.
Aspiring nurse aides have been targeted with false promises of training placements or guaranteed jobs in clinics and private hospitals. Authorities have repeatedly warned that legitimate health institutions do not recruit or train staff through unofficial agents or social media intermediaries.
Security and retail jobs have similarly become a common trap. Job seekers are told they have been selected for guarding or shopkeeping positions, only to be instructed to pay upfront fees before deployment. Once payment is made, communication with the so-called agent is often cut off.
Labour experts say the problem reflects broader economic pressures. “When jobs are scarce, people become vulnerable to anyone who claims to offer a way out,” said one analyst. “Scammers understand this and design their schemes to look simple, fast and believable.”
Police have urged the public to exercise caution, emphasising that genuine employers do not charge applicants for jobs. Job seekers are advised to verify vacancies through official company channels, government offices or recognised recruitment agencies before making any payments or sharing personal documents.
As the cost of these scams continues to mount both financially and emotionally authorities and civil society groups are calling for stronger public awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable job seekers from exploitation.
