But in 2018, a fire gutted the entire flat, leaving Chihwayi and other families out in the cold

Patsikadova’s story mirrors that of many Zimbabweans who are reeling in poverty as they struggle to survive.

Despite the challenges Garimoto faces, he said he still enjoys the independence that comes with living alone.

“I was afraid of going to live alone, but I was counseled and told that going to live alone was a part of growing up,” says the shy and reserved Garimoto.

The mother of two was devastated. She felt betrayed. “I thought that she was going to keep the issue a secret when I confided in her,” she said.

A friend recommended a nearby clinic operating illegally in someone’s home. “I had a conviction that this was the only immediate option,” she says.