Why Rural Zimbabwe?

Typical Rural Home

The humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe affects more than half the country's 11 million (est.) people. As it has worsened, so too have the number of reported cases of child headed families and poverty. Childhood is not a time of joy for many Zimbabwean children. Orphaned and hungry children sadly reflect upon the breakdown of the family unit and the extended family traditions in the society.

According to UNICEF, Zimbabwe has a higher number of orphans, in proportion to its population, than any other country in the world. In fact, 1 in 5 orphans are a result of HIV/AIDS and 25% of adult population are HIV positive. Zimbabwe has a staggering 95% unempolyment rate and in April 2009 Zimbabwe abolished its local currency and is currently using the US Dollar.

Young people between the ages of 15 to 24 years are the group most vulnerable to HIV and other STI's in Zimbabwe. Factors that increase their risks of exposure include:

• Poverty
• Economic insecurity
• Lack of educational opportunities
• Loss of traditional family support systems
• Changes in social values due to urbanisation

The food situation in Zimbabwe is critical. Although an increasing number of shops have food, the majority of the population cannot afford it.

The HIV/AIDS pandemic also contributes to the scarcity of food available within the home as frequently the breadwinner is either too sick to work or has already died, leaving the family vulnerable and with a much-reduced income.