AWANA Reaches Marginalised Communities

AWANA, a civil society organisation, is making significant strides in alleviating hunger and poverty in Mt Darwin through various programs. At a recent gathering held at Chiutsa Primary School, stakeholders met to review and plan projects, showcasing the positive impact of the initiatives.

The organisation’s school feeding program has contributed to a reduction in school dropouts and early child marriages. The Deputy Headmistress, Mrs Chingwa, praised the program, citing a 50 percent pass rate at Grade Seven level last year, and highlighted the importance of targeting this age group.

The program has also fostered community engagement by training Lead Mothers in nutrition and hygiene, and promoting smart agriculture techniques such as conservation agriculture and efficient gardening methods like pema and keyhole gardens, which require less water for irrigation.

Lead Mothers, Mrs Gladys Kagwambu and Mrs Cecilia Dzapasi, reported that they have adopted these methods and are encouraging others to do the same. This has enabled households to produce food and generate income. In addition, AWANA supports marginalised students by covering their examination and school fees.

Meanwhile, the school is also implementing income-generating projects, including goat rearing, Pfumvudza maize fields, Boshveld chicks, and an orchard.

The event featured activities that promoted teamwork and leadership among students, including a game square with various challenges. Stakeholders, including the Ward Councillor, Mr Fatios Chawora, expressed enthusiasm for the program’s expansion and its potential to benefit more communities. Mr Chawora emphasised the importance of cooperation with various stakeholders in achieving the goals of Vision 2030.