Zimbabwe lies in the south of Africa, bordering Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia.

Robert Mugabe has led the country and dominated Zimbabwe’s political landscape for more than 20 years. During his rule the economy has suffered with widespread poverty and unemployment levels hitting an estimated 95 per cent.

Hyper-inflation, food shortages, drought and emigration of skilled professionals are some of the problems Zimbabwe has faced in recent years. 

ActionAid in Zimbabwe
ActionAid began operating in Zimbabwe in 1997. We work in the areas of education, water, livelihoods and health.

Health matters
Almost one in six adults are living with HIV/AIDS, which has put a massive strain on the nation’s health service in recent years.

We fund doctors to work in under-staffed rural regions, as well as training local people in basic medical skills, preventative healthcare and childbirth practices.

An education for all
Half the children of school-going age in Zimbabwe are missing out on an education. This is usually because they have to work or marry to support their families.

We help pay for school fees, teaching supplies and uniforms for HIV/AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children. We also provide flexible schooling for children who need to work. Their classes are held in village buildings and arranged to fit in with farming activities and chores.

More food and clean water
We help farmers to improve crop yields with better farming techniques.

Families are also given the chance to take out loans from ActionAid-supported credit groups. These loans enable people to build a business and provide for their future.

We also work alongside local communities to provide a safe water supply for years to come.