From Vulnerability to Resilience, Zimbabwe’s Climate Resilient Livelihoods Project Leads the Way

Staff Reporter

In the picturesque village of Foroma, nestled in the Chipinge District of Zimbabwe, a groundbreaking initiative is changing lives and fostering a culture of peace and harmony. The Climate Resilient Livelihoods (CRL) Project, a collaborative effort between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Government of Zimbabwe, and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is not only combating the adverse effects of climate change but also addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV).

At the heart of the project’s success lies the introduction of Village Savings and Lending (VS&L) Groups, which have empowered community members to take control of their financial lives. These groups provide a platform for individuals to save and access low-interest loans, enabling them to fund agricultural and entrepreneurial activities. The impact has been transformative, with community members like Lucia Mashava and Taurai Mbambu testifying to the positive changes in their lives.

For Lucia, a 48-year-old resident, the VS&L group has been a lifeline. “In my 29 years of marriage, I have never enjoyed spending time with my family as much as I do now. Arguments over money and food are a thing of the past,” she exclaimed. Taurai, who was initially skeptical, joined a VS&L group after witnessing his wife’s success. “When we meet as groups, we discuss not only finances but also strategies for resolving conflicts peacefully. This project has significantly changed our lives and behavior,” he remarked.

The CRL Project’s impact extends beyond the VS&L groups. Farmers are being equipped with the tools and knowledge to adopt climate-resilient agricultural practices, enhancing food security and incomes. Investments in bee apiaries provide a sustainable source of income while promoting biodiversity. According to Project Manager Mr. Rungano Benza, “The CRL Project is more than a climate initiative; it’s a community transformation effort. By addressing livelihoods, we’re reducing GBV and fostering harmony.”

Headman Mandamugiyo, a respected traditional leader in the community, has witnessed firsthand the project’s transformative impact. “The introduction of savings groups has provided my community, especially couples, with an opportunity to earn their own income, which has been essential in reducing domestic conflicts,” he shared. Reflecting on the past, Headman Mandamugiyo recalled that two out of every five cases in his traditional court involved GBV, primarily fueled by bread-and-butter issues.

As the CRL Project continues to make a lasting impact in Foroma Village, the community looks to the future with hope and optimism. Headman Mandamugiyo envisions a thriving, peaceful community, united in purpose. “This project has given people meaningful activities, leaving little time for disagreements. By the day’s end, we are tired but satisfied,” he concluded.

The CRL Project’s success serves as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Zimbabwe today. As the project continues to expand its reach and impact, it is clear that the transformation in Foroma Village is just the beginning of a brighter, more resilient future for communities across Zimbabwe.