Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of Africa. Much of the surface of the country is covered by granite and rock, limiting the amount of arable land. Family is very important in Zimbabwe. Children are great sources of pride and the focal point of much attention and affection. In Zimbabwe, as in many developing countries, large families are viewed as signs of wealth. In rural areas, the average number of children in a family is 13.

The staple diet for most of the rural population is sadza, a thick porridge composed of corn meal and boiled water. This is usually eaten in the evening with cooked vegetables and meat when available. The only other meal of the day is breakfast, which normally consists of hot tea and corn porridge.

Families live together in extended groups, in compounds called kraals. These compounds generally consist of various houses for living, storage buildings, and corrals (for livestock). In the rural areas of the country, electricity, running water, and basic services are very limited.

Plan’s work

The dry season besets virtually the entire country each year, resulting in severe food shortages. The few health centres in the rural areas are poorly equipped and drinking water is scarce. Plan’s projects focus mainly on improving health care, education and income.

Stories from Zimbabwe: