The year 2016 saw FACT receiving additional funding TEAR Netherlands targeting young people 15-24 years in Mutare rural (Ward 16 – Mafararikwa and Ward 17 – Takarwa) and Bikita (Wards 20 and 24). The goal of this project was to improve sexual reproductive health status and livelihood initiatives among young people. The project started in 2016 and ended in 2018. It adopted the STAR (Societies Tackling AIDS through Rights) methodology to address issues affecting young people. STAR is a participatory approach that facilitates the mobilization of people and communities affected or living with HIV and AIDS by providing a system for mutual reflection, planning and collective action towards HIV and AIDS. It offers an integrated response to HIV and AIDS using the tri-focal lens of gender, human rights and HIV and AIDS. This is an all-encompassing methodology that deals with several issues linked to SRH.

Project achievements

• 12 community facilitators were trained in Bikita and Mutare rural districts on STAR Methodology and the cadres are now well equipped to roll out the STAR methodology in their districts.

• Sensitized 6 school administrators on livelihoods initiatives and SRHR information and services

• 300 out of the targeted 250 guardians were sensitized on SRH information and services for young people.

• Establishment of livelihood initiatives for young people focusing on 80 households

• Reached 55 young people with psycho-social support camping on SRHR and livelihood skills