7 DAYS AS A LOCAL

People keep asking me, “Carl, why Kadoma?” They say it like I’ve joined a secret society or moved to the moon. But as a man with a nursing background, I don’t just make moves; I make diagnoses. And my diagnosis of Kadoma? It’s suffering from an acute case of “Being Too Awesome for People to Realize It Yet.”

So, I’ve prescribed a heavy dose of the #VisitKadoma platform to show the rest of the world what they’re missing. Between setting up digital magazines and mentoring the next generation of tech giants right here in the City of Gold, I’ve had to develop a very “rigorous” seven-day clinical routine.

If you want to live like a local (or just like me), here is how you survive—and thrive—in Kadoma:

Monday: The Intellectual Sugar Rush

I start my week at the Library. There’s something about digging through the history of how this city became the hub it is that makes me feel like a detective. Once I’ve gathered my “evidence,” I head over to Cafe Avodah. I sit there with my borrowed books and meet with young entrepreneurs. We plot the digital future of Zimbabwe over their carrot cake. Honestly, the cake is so good it should be a tax-deductible business expense.

Tuesday: The “Import” Specialist

Tuesday is my day for logistical excellence. I stay indoors and wait for the “runners”—those brave souls bringing the sacred cargo from Harare or Chegutu. There is a specific kind of joy in heating up a Nandos or KFC meal that has traveled further than some people do in a month. It’s “fast food” delivered slowly, and it tastes like victory.

Wednesday: The Rimuka Ritual

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced a Wednesday in Rimuka. I find a local butchery, pick out the best cuts, and have them braai’d right there while I lean against my car with a cold drink. It’s not just a meal; it’s a vibe. It’s where the best stories are told and where the pulse of the city really beats.

Thursday: The Calm Before the Storm

Before the weekend madness hits, I retreat to The Odyssey or The Honeypot for some Sadza. The trick is to go outside the lunch peak. You get that “VIP who owns the joint” service, the Sadza is steaming, and it’s quiet enough to actually hear yourself think about your next big idea.

Friday: Market Research (and Banana Loaf)

Friday mornings belong to the Mashuma Market. It’s the ultimate social network, but with better coffee. I grab a slice of that famous banana loaf—which, if you’re lucky, comes with a side of live acoustic music—and catch up with the community. I load up on fresh produce for the week and, of course, more meat for the braai. You can never have enough meat.

Saturday: Farm-to-Table (Literally)

Saturdays are for heading just outside town to my friend’s farm. We throw Tomahawk steaks, sweet corn, and aubergines on the fire. There is something deeply therapeutic about eating a steak while staring at a cow in the distance. It’s the circle of life, seasoned with salt and pepper, washed down with an ice-cold beer.

Sunday: The Crayfish Finale

We end the week at Claw Dam. Forget the standard Sunday roast; we’re doing crayfish on the braai with a legendary amount of garlic butter. Add a glass of chilled white wine, and suddenly, you realize why I’m working so hard on #VisitKadoma.