Preserving Hope and Building Community Capacity

Results achieved as of the end of the project (June 2011) include: Community-based researchers have been trained to collect analyze and report data on health education income employment and food security at the local level. These reports have been used to support emergency response on issues such as food relief and cholera as well as longer-term community planning to address the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS. The monitors' reports are also circulated to local and international agencies to help improve their planning. The project has produced and disseminated publications which have provided input into national level strategic planning documents such as the Government of Zimbabwe National Health Strategy and the Zimbabwe Health Investment Case. Community members have assumed ownership and are now leading their own empowerment activities including regular interdenominational meetings that improve community cohesion and functioning. Over 64 community initiatives have been held to promote non-violent conflict resolution and peace-building. A series of carefully-managed meetings with members of opposing political parties and NGO church and traditional leaders helped to de-escalate violence and tensions.