Snippets from the handover of start-up kits by FACT Zimbabwe with the generous support from the American People through PEPFAR and USAID

546 adolescents and youth received start-up materials and tools worth USD$81,900.00 under The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the United States Agency for International Development in Zimbabwe (USAID Zimbabwe) supported Children Tariro project being implemented by FACT Zimbabwe in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces.

During the handover ceremonies that took place in Makoni, Chipinge, Mutasa and Mutare districts, beneficiaries of the community apprenticeship programme exhibited samples of works designed for their respective trades. These samples included confectionaries, doorframes, different types of vegetables, window frames, and woven and sewn garments among other items

Speaking during a handover ceremony in Hauna of Mutasa district, FACT Zimbabwe Executive Director, Mrs Gertrude Shumba said,

“The equipment provided to the beneficiaries courtesy of PEPFAR through USAID-Zimbabwe will go a long way in helping them establish their businesses and earn from the skills they have acquired.”

 The equipment that was handed over included tailoring machines, hammers, welding machines, utility knives, flour, sugar, farming tools, work suits, helmets and safety glasses.

Community Apprenticeship is a model under the Children Tariro Project Economic Strengthening pillar which identifies vulnerable adolescents and youth and helps them acquire skills that would help them earn a living and reduce unemployment in the country. Since 2015 to date 127,159 orphans and vulnerable children and their caregivers have benefited from various economic strengthening activities in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces.