Self Help Development Foundation Zimbabwe

SHDF Reconnects with Longstanding Community Partners in Bulawayo
Following its successful re-engagement with key stakeholders in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province on 2 June 2026 at Mhlahlandlela Government Complex, the Self Help Development Foundation (SHDF) continued its return to the province by reconnecting with community representatives who have been part of the organisation's journey since 2017.
On 3 June 2026, SHDF met with 20 community representatives, many of whom were among the last groups engaged before programme activities in the province paused in 2017. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on past achievements, share experiences from the intervening years, and discuss priorities for future collaboration.
The meeting was characterized by joy, renewed hope, and a shared commitment to strengthening community-led development initiatives. Participants welcomed SHDF's return and expressed their eagerness to work together once again in promoting women's empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, and social inclusion.
The re-engagement forms part of SHDF's broader programme revival in Bulawayo, made possible through the continued support of Sida CSO through We Effect, with funding support expected to run until 2028. By reconnecting with both institutional stakeholders and community representatives, SHDF is laying a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable development interventions that respond to the needs and aspirations of local communities.
SHDF extends its gratitude to all community members, leaders, and partners who have remained committed to the vision of self-help and community transformation over the years. Together, we are rebuilding partnerships and creating pathways for lasting change.

SHDF Re-engages in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province After Nearly a Decade.
On 02 June 2026, the Self Help Development Foundation (SHDF) officially re-engaged stakeholders in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, marking its return to the province since 2017. The engagement meeting was held at Mhlahlandlela Government Complex, bringing together representatives from government departments, civil society organizations(including BVTA and Emthonjeni Women's Forum), and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and advance sustainable development initiatives.
This re-engagement is made possible through the generous support of Sida CSO through We Effect, whose partnership with SHDF is expected to continue up to 2028. The support will enable SHDF to deepen its work on community empowerment, climate resilience, gender equality, and inclusive development across Zimbabwe.
SHDF extends its sincere appreciation to all participants who attended and contributed to the discussions. Together, we are building stronger partnerships and creating sustainable solutions that leave no one behind.
We look forward to expanding our presence and impact in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province through meaningful collaboration with communities, government institutions, and civil society partners.

The pictures shows progress at Tayambuka Garden as members enjoy the fruits of their hard work and commitment to sustainable farming. 🌱🌽
The garden is currently producing green mealies which are being sold at $1 for 5, helping members generate income and improve household livelihoods. Different batches of green beans are also thriving, with one section now at flowering stage while another was planted two weeks ago, showing continuous production planning. 🍃
In addition, the tomato crop is progressing well and is now at flowering stage, promising a good harvest ahead. The garden reflects the dedication of members towards food security, nutrition, and economic empowerment within the community. 🌿🍅

Women in Ward 8, Murewa District, are turning knowledge into action 🌱
Following agroecology training facilitated by SHDF, community members received starter pack seedlings and are now actively applying sustainable organic farming practices in their demo plots.
The pictures capture members receiving seedlings, preparing compost, and planting their crops using organic methods — a practical step towards promoting food security, healthy nutrition, and climate-smart agriculture within their communities.
Through agroecology, women are not only growing vegetables but also cultivating resilience and sustainable livelihoods for their families.

Today, on Workers’ Day, we pause with deep gratitude to celebrate the heartbeat of our organization — our incredible SHDF team.
Your dedication, resilience, and passion for transforming communities do not go unnoticed. Every long day in the field, every thoughtful report, every life touched — it all matters. You are not just employees; you are change-makers, hope carriers, and the driving force behind our mission.
Because of you, marginalized women and communities are seen, heard, and empowered. Because of you, we continue to challenge injustice and build a more inclusive and just society.
Today, we celebrate your hard work. Today, we honor your commitment. Today, we say THANK YOU.
May you feel proud of the impact you are making. May you feel valued — not just today, but every single day.
Happy Workers’ Day, SHDF Family. Together, we rise. ✊🏾

Mrs. Alleta Ncube of Matshiya Village in Nkashe Ward 1 is a hardworking and passionate woman dedicated to uplifting others in her community. As both a member and chairperson of the Dalumehluko Value Addition Centre, she leads by example, actively contributing to group initiatives. She volunteered to grow small grains to support value addition activities and established three Pfumvudza plots measuring 39m x 16m. As she begins harvesting, she anticipates a yield of at least two tonnes.
In addition to crop production, Mrs. Ncube is successfully running a poultry project. With 192 layer birds, she collects an average of six crates of eggs per day, earning approximately $24 daily. She is optimistic about expanding her enterprise and doubling her income in the near future.
Her determination, leadership, and commitment to improving livelihoods make her a true role model. Mrs. Ncube continues to demonstrate that with hard work and vision, it is possible to achieve meaningful and lasting success.

🏡 Turning Savings into Shelter: A Youth Success Story

Bernard Munyongani and Maudy Chavahera are a young, determined couple whose story reflects the true power of community-driven development. As active youth members of Self Help Development Foundation (SHDF), they have become a shining example of how resilience, opportunity, and the right support can transform lives.
Their journey began in 2019 when they joined SHDF and quickly embraced the concept of Internal Savings and Lending (ISAL). Bernard initially participated in a group dominated by adults, where he gained critical skills in saving, discipline, and financial planning. This foundation would later become the stepping stone to something much bigger.
In 2023, a new opportunity emerged. Through support from SIDA CIVSAM and We Effect, SHDF introduced a youth-focused greenhouse initiative. Bernard stepped up, mobilizing other young people and forming a 15-member youth ISAL group named Goodhope. This marked the beginning of a powerful movement of youth-led economic empowerment in their community.
Together, Bernard and Maudy joined the Advanced Youth Greenhouse Garden project in Ward 32, Buhera. Equipped with a solar-powered borehole and greenhouse infrastructure, the group ventured into tomato production. The results were life-changing—regular income, improved agricultural skills, and renewed hope for the future.
At the time, the couple was living with Bernard’s parents. But through consistent savings from their ISAL group and income from greenhouse farming, they achieved what once seemed out of reach: building their own home. By December 2025, their house was complete, and they proudly moved into their own space—a symbol of hard work, discipline, and vision.
Reflecting on their journey, Bernard expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support from SIDA CIVSAM, We Effect, and SHDF. He acknowledged that without the ISAL group and greenhouse project, this milestone would not have been possible. Maudy emphasized how financial literacy and business development trainings empowered them to manage their income wisely and plan for the future.
And they are not stopping there.
Inspired by their success and driven by ambition, the couple is now planning to expand into poultry production as a new income stream—continuing to build a more secure and sustainable future.

✨ Bernard and Maudy’s story is more than just a personal success—it is proof that when young people are empowered with the right tools, support, and opportunities, they can transform not only their own lives but entire communities.
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Miriam Sibanda and her husband John Sibanda of Thornwood Village in Ward 22 in Gwanda have embraced climate-smart agriculture by planting sorghum in four Pfumvudza plots and maize on three hectares. After attending climate-smart and SALM trainings, they successfully applied the techniques, resulting in thriving crops and promising yields. Encouraged by this progress, they plan to sell three sorghum plots and two hectares of maize to the GMB, while reserving the remainder for household consumption. They anticipate harvesting around six tonnes of maize and about 2 tonnes on sorghum ,they are optimistic about earning approximately $360 per tonne, marking a significant step toward improved household income and food security.

Happy International Women’s Day.

SHDF joined WCoZ, Minister of Women Affairs,Community,Small and Medium Enterprises Development and other organizations in the National launch of the 2026 International Women’s Day commemorations was held in Bindura, Mashonaland Central, at Chipadze High School, bringing together thousands of women from across Zimbabwe to mark the beginning of Women’s Month.

The event was officiated by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, and featured a solidarity walk, speeches, entertainment, and exhibitions under the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”

Self Help Development Foundation (SHDF) was honoured to receive a visit from the Minister at our exhibition stand, where she met with our Executive Director, Muchanyara C. Mukamuri. The discussion highlighted SHDF’s work in empowering communities through skills development, savings initiatives, and income-generating projects that improve livelihoods.

During the launch, the Minister emphasized the importance of investing in women through entrepreneurship, education, and leadership opportunities, while encouraging greater collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate gender equality and women’s empowerment.

SHDF remains committed to working with partners to promote gender equality and support women’s empowerment across Zimbabwe.