VIM to ZIM

Packing: essentials
If you are bringing in any items to donate, it’s best to divide the items up and mix them into your personal luggage so that they aren’t all together and attract less attention if your bag is opened and searched by customs. Generally speaking, the very best idea is that everything you are bringing is identified and described as for your personal use while in Zimbabwe. N.B. Items that are meant to be donated for charitable or humanitarian use do have to go through a formal entry process that requires certain documentation. Though it may seem small, useful and a good deed to you, the customs official you encounter may only see an opportunity to charge duty and without the requisite documentation to support duty-free entry of your donation, s/he may hold the items until those documents are produced.

If there is medication you need or routinely take, it’s best to bring an adequate supply with you. Prescription medicines for personal use do not attract duty but should be clearly identified with your name and the prescribing doctor’s name. Zimbabwe does have a medicines control protocol in place and any prescription type medicines (other than for the specific individual’s use) that are being brought in (for donation) will attract questions and require documentation.

Please pack one or two small but powerful flashlights…you’ll find them very useful for getting around at night. We sometimes have power outages in the evenings.

Do not place valuable electronics (expensive digital cameras, iPods, portable CD/DVD players, Laptops, etc.) in your checked baggage. We’ve been noticing a significant increase in the pilfering of these items from personal luggage while it is in transit. We’re not sure where it is happening…but suspect baggage handlers in London and Johannesburg. If you’d rather not lose it, put it in your hand luggage!
Photo-taking
Regardless of where I am, I never take anyone’s photograph in a public area without asking permission first. It’s simply a matter of courtesy. Zimbabwe has similar rules to the US and other countries about photo-taking around airports, government buildings and especially security installations. Sometimes, government buildings are not clearly identified as such and police, army and other security personnel really hate having their pictures taken…my advice is to keep your camera in your bag when you’re out and about in public. You’re free to take photos on campus at AU and during visits to UMC churches, projects, mission centres, etc.
Money
The current official exchange rate on the US$ to the Zimbabwe $ is US$1 = Z$250. On the parallel market, rates are considerably higher (US$1 = Z$1,400) but the government maintains that parallel market transactions are illegal. Visitors are expected to change their foreign currency at Reserve Bank branches, commercial banks or licensed bureau de change outlets.
Interacting with people
Zimbabweans are courteous, friendly people who welcome visitors warmly. However, occasionally there are those who have ugly intentions (pick-pockets, thieves) and one should employ the normal caution when approached by a stranger or strangers in an unfamiliar environment. It’s best to avoid displaying large amounts of cash (local or foreign currency) or expensive jewelry and electronics on city streets.

Also, in general, Zimbabweans maintain a certain formality or conservative stance on physical contact between men and women. You’ll rarely see even married couples hugging and touching in public. When you greet people publicly, it is usual to shake hands. Hugging is rare between men and women, even where they are related. In terms of authority figures such as pastors, head masters and district superintendents, it’s best to keep physical contact to a minimum unless the individual gives says it is ok for you to do otherwise (such as hug them).