Zimbabwe

This program is currently closed.
As a result of political and economic turmoil, the Habitat for Humanity Zimbabwe program was closed in 2005.

Why Habitat was needed in Zimbabwe
In recent years, the beautiful nation of Zimbabwe has spiraled into a state of crisis. Land has been redistributed to black through violent confiscation of white-owned commercial farms. Wars in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and severe droughts have caused inflation, food and fuel shortages. In 2005, urban slums were demolished, leaving 700,000 people without jobs or homes.

Hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans, including much-needed professionals, have fled the chaos. Many who have stayed rely on food aid. The collapse of the agricultural economy has had far-reaching effects. Inflation has soared to highs of 600%, the exchange rate has plummeted, and unemployment and poverty are endemic. Compounding its economic struggles, Zimbabwe has an extremely high rate of HIV/AIDS infection, at approximately 24% of the population.

How Habitat helped
Established in 1996, Habitat for Humanity Zimbabwe worked with several communities to address their housing needs. HFH Zimbabwe houses replaced traditional rondavals, or small huts made of mud walls and thatch roofs.

Rondavals are difficult to maintain and provide a breeding ground for rodents and insects. Rondavals also tend to have poor lighting and ventilation. Measuring 6.6 x 5.8 meters overall, HFH Zimbabwe houses are constructed of baked brick, with a concrete floor and concrete tile roof. A separate kitchen and Ventilated Improved Pit dry latrine is located behind each house.

Highlights

• Before the close of program, 901 houses were built in seven of Zimbabwe’s twelve provinces.
• Pundutso Microfinance Company, an agency of World Vision Zimbabwe, has assumed the responsibility running of Habitat’s housing program.

Facts about Zimbabwe
Location: Southern Africa, between South Africa and Zambia
Population: 12.9 million
Languages: English, Shona, Sindebele
Climate: Tropical, moderated by altitude
Religions: Christian, indigenous religions, syncretism (part Christian, part indigenous)
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Economy: Main exports include tobacco, cotton, agricultural products, gold, and minerals