Sustainable AgriVentures for Empowered Women and Youth (SAVE-WY) Intervention Program in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The Sustainable AgriVentures for Empowered Women and Youth (SAVE-WY) project is implemented by Marondera University of Agricultural Science and Technology in partnership with Bindura University of Science Education. This project is supported financially by the International Water Management Institute in South Africa and is an Ukama Ustawi Work Package 5 Project activity. Funded by CGIAR with a budget of USD 45,000, the SAVE-WY project targeted 150 households in Mashonaland Central and Masvingo provinces of Zimbabwe.

Through the SAVE-WY project, a revolving fund was established to provide financial support to households with a strong emphasis on promoting gender equality and social inclusion. Then revolving fund provided seed funding and a sustainable avenue for wealth regeneration that would enable beneficiaries to access essential resources and services, facilitating the development of resilient livelihoods and transforming household and community dynamics. In addition to establishing a revolving fund, the SAVE-WY UU WP5 project also provided support through capacity building and mentorship for the youth and women who were recipients of the revolving fund. The project provided extension services to minimize default risks, ensuring a gender-transformative approach throughout its implementation.

The SAVE-WY project was thus launched to address the critical challenges faced by marginalized groups in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, particularly women and youth. With a youth unemployment rate of approximately 14% and agriculture accounting for a significant portion of employment and GDP, this project aimed to empower these demographics through capacity building and financial support.

Key findings demonstrate that the project successfully improved participants' business practices across sectors such as poultry farming, mushroom farming, vending, baking, and agro-retailing. However, challenges like climate-induced droughts and limited resources necessitated adaptive strategies. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the project objectives, activities, financial assessment, impact, challenges faced, and recommendations for future sustainability.

The SAVE-WY project demonstrated a holistic approach to capacity building, emphasizing both skills enhancement and practical support. By empowering women and youth in agriculture, it contributed not only to individual economic resilience but also to broader community development.