Zimbabwe faces significant challenges in access to safe water and sanitation, as well as high levels of malnutrition. Government efforts are often inadequate due to the limited capacity of national water utilities to provide comprehensive water services and the inequitable food distribution.

The project addresses these issues by implementing a ‘self-supply’ approach using Simple, Market-oriented, Affordable, and Repairable Technologies (SMARTechs). This approach aims to enhance income generation and ensure sustainable access to water and agroecological practices. This initiative empowers local entrepreneurs and households to improve their own water supply and food security, complementing the national government’s existing efforts.

A key focus of the project is supporting women in developing entrepreneurial skills and assisting groups of women farmers in transitioning to sustainable food production. This approach aims to enhance family livelihoods and strengthen community resilience and food security.

The project emphasizes strengthening the knowledge and skills of artisans and farmers through participatory processes, ensuring the commitment and ownership of the target families. By promoting agroecological practices, the project aims to increase the demand for water access, which trained masons can effectively meet. The components of the project are designed to be complementary and mutually reinforcing.

To support these efforts, a SMART Centre will be established as a training and demonstration center for the various project components. This center will serve as a hub for learning and innovation, providing essential resources and support to the community.

SMART Centre

• Construction of four Randovol structures (buildings adapted to the environment)
• Dedication of one structure as a laboratory for water quality testing

Agroecology

• Train-the-trainer workshop for conservation agriculture facilitators
• Establishment of demonstration plots
• Training of clean energy technicians

Donors