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Zimbabwe

Political instability has caused incredible economic hardship for the people of Zimbabwe. Starting in 2000, the country underwent a forced seizure of almost all commercial farms, with the stated aim of benefiting landless Zimbabweans. However, this redistribution plan led to the collapse of the agriculture-based economy, massive unemployment, and extreme hyperinflation.

A decline in production caused critical food shortages and left millions throughout Southern Africa at risk of starvation. The official inflation rate soared from 32% in 1998 to an 89,700,000,000,000,000,000,000% annually in November 2008. Over the past two years, the nation’s growing poverty have combined with a surge of political violence and escalated into a humanitarian crisis.

Widespread disease continues to be a major problem in Zimbabwe. Although HIV and AIDS infection rates have recently improved, one in six adults is still likely to be infected and at least one million children have been orphaned by the virus. Following HIV/AIDS, malaria is the second leading killer of children under five in Zimbabwe.

In light of the current crisis, Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Church of the Province of Central Africa and Anglican Diocese of Masvingo to protect the most vulnerable from hunger and disease.

Alleviating Hunger and Improving Food Supply

• Poultry training programs teach sustainable farming practices and bring a necessary source of food and income.

Promoting Health and Fighting Disease

• HIV/AIDS awareness workshops train local volunteers about prevention in their communities and how to care for families affected by HIV.

• Home-based care for people living with HIV/AIDS and support for orphaned children
  improve the quality of life of those suffering.

• Zimbabwe is one of 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa where the NetsforLife® program partnership is working to prevent malaria by distributing long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and educating communities in prevention and treatment methods.
   
• An integrated program was established to promote health care in communities through provision of information, education and communication (I.E.C.).  The program conducts advocacy for HIV/AIDS and provides training in the care of those living with the disease.

Creating Economic Opportunties and Strengthening Communities

• The Diocese of Masvingo provides entrepreneur training programs for unskilled and disadvantaged women.  The training includes dressmaking, pig farming, chicken rearing and peanut butter making.