2009 Success in Zimbabwe

When you read about our successes in Zimbabwe it is played out against the backdrop of the Zimbabwean Government's dubious honor of being named the second worst failed state in the world. Extensive failures have lead to 321 million percent inflation (2008), 95% unemployment and a malnutrition induced cholera epidemic. In spite of this:

- Batsiranai maintained steady employment for 100 mothers. Our members have persevered through the global recession with humor and heart. It has been a powerful lesson watching how they adapted and made things work during hard times.

Distributed over 30,000 African dolls in rural Zimbabwe to children who have never had a doll to call their own! Oxfamshop, Australia created this campaign in 2005 to help Zimbabwean HIV+ affected children and was joined in 2008 by Ten Thousand Villages in the United States. (Michael put in links to ttv (http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/twin-doll) and to our webpage under "about us" - Twin Doll Oxfam Campaign.

- Survived this year's Cholera Epidemic. Although some children and mothers contracted this life threatening dysentery, ALL recovered!

- Increased the pool of seamstresses, doll-makers, and embroiderers.

- Became guardians for AIDS orphans, including a special needs abandoned baby.

Received medical and drug treatment for our moms and children living with HIV+ who remain healthy and productive.

- Paid the fees required to buy into the next phase of a housing cooperative for 25 families

- Assisted families to pay school fees for their special needs children after an education crisis made the school tuition unaffordable.