Zimbabwe

Why CAFOD works in Zimbabwe

Years of economic turmoil and climate change means life remains precarious for many in Zimbabwe. One in four children are malnourished and many families remain vulnerable to disease, malnutrition and the increasing risk of natural disasters and climate change. They are particularly susceptible to the impact of a widespread outbreak of coronavirus.

Families across Zimbabwe have been struggling with food and water shortages caused by a severe drought for many months. These shortages are likely to get worse if restrictions imposed to control the spread of coronavirus further limit the supply of food and make it more difficult for people to access water. The country's health system has been weakened from worsening economic conditions, and they now face shortages in medical supplies and equipment.

Our work in Zimbabwe

We have supported local experts in Zimbabwe since the 1970s. 

With your donations we are:

• Responding to coronavirus by raising awareness in communities about the importance of hygiene and handwashing.

• Funding the supply of personal protective equipment to St Albert's Mission hospital.

• Constructing safe water and sanitation facilities for communities.

• Providing seeds, tools and training to vulnerable families enabling them to earn money, become more resilient to climate change, reduce dependency on food aid and improve nutrition.

• Training community healthcare workers to reduce malnutrition.

• Providing vital assistance to people living with HIV and AIDS, working to reduce stigma and discrimination, providing skills training and equipment to boost income, and specialised nutrition and health advice.

• Offering specialised support to children affected by HIV, ensuring access to essential education and healthcare services and that their voices are heard both locally and nationally.

• Helping people to get involved with local issues by taking part in processes like elections and local authority budgeting.