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Fighting disaster-induced urban poverty in Zimbabwe
USAID / OFDA
September 23, 2009

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During the past several years, Zimbabwe has faced an ongoing complex emergency due to a collapsing economy, limited access to basic services, political instability and violence, disease, and poorly maintained infrastructure. The effects of hyperinflation and unemployment have exacerbated poverty, while largescale displacement in urban and peri-urban areas as a result of political violence has further jeopardized the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.

Since 2006, USAID/OFDA has supported the Joint Initiative (JI), an innovative, multi-sectoral program implemented by six relief agencies to fight disaster-induced urban poverty and restore human dignity in cities and high-density suburbs throughout Zimbabwe. The program seeks to improve the livelihoods and food security of particularly vulnerable populations, including households headed by elderly people, childheaded households, people with disabilities, children, and people suffering from chronic illnesses. JI activities are designed to be self-sustaining and generate momentum; a small initial investment enables beneficiaries to build a business or grow vegetables, thus improving their families' lives and their own.

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