Update from BHW Zimbabwe Partnership Facilitators 

Key People: Gideon & Jennifer Chisamba

This report has been compiled following email correspondence with Gideon. We last visited Zimbabwe in March 2024. 

Recent Events

Makamure Community

Makamure is a vast, remote rural community in Chivi District, Masvingo Province, known for its harsh living conditions—persistent drought, poor soil structure, widespread hunger, and socio-economic challenges such as school dropouts and limited economic opportunities. Despite these difficulties, Fountain of Hope has taken significant strides to improve the quality of life in this community.

With approval from the Chivi District Council, Fountain of Hope has been actively working to alleviate food insecurity, enhance educational opportunities, provide clean drinking water, establish nutritious gardens, and offer psycho-social support to orphans and vulnerable children.

During the most recent visit, the focus was on Foundations for Farming, a technique that has been introduced to over 500 families to help them sustainably cultivate food despite the area's poor rainfall. The visit provided a platform for farmers and non-farmers to exchange experiences, explore best practices, and witness firsthand how this approach is transforming lives. Community members toured various villages, hearing success stories and learning from those who have effectively implemented the farming methods.

Before visiting Makamure, the team engaged with the Chivi District Council to gather feedback on the organization’s impact. The council expressed deep appreciation for the work being done, highlighting how Fountain of Hope’s initiatives have improved food security and raised school pass rates among vulnerable children who now receive daily nutritious meals. Additionally, the community gardens in Madzivire and Masvingise villages have empowered families to grow and sell vegetables, enabling them to purchase essentials like maize meal during difficult seasons. Even in the face of minimal rainfall, farmers like Mr Chengeta have successfully grown enough food to sustain their households throughout the year.

As a result of this progress, the community has expressed great gratitude and is requesting that Fountain of Hope expand its programs to neighbouring villages to reach even more families in need.

We thank God for the meaningful impact this ministry continues to have, bringing hope and sustainable change to Makamure. 

Foundations for Farming

The Foundations for Farming program, brought by Fountain of Hope, has had a profound impact on the Makamure community. This initiative has not only equipped community members with knowledge on conservation farming but has also fostered unity, cooperation, and collective development.

Breaking Down Barriers
Prior to the program, Makamure was characterized by divisions, individualism, and a lack of support among community members. However, Foundations for Farming has:
1) Fostered Community Bonding: Brought people together, encouraging collaboration and mutual support.
2) Promoted Collective Problem-Solving: Enabled community members to share ideas, discuss issues, and find solutions together.

Holistic Development
The program's impact extends beyond farming, as community members now:
1) Discuss Health Issues: Share knowledge and experiences on health matters.
2) Develop Community Plans: Collaborate on initiatives to improve their community.
3) Study the Bible Together: Foster spiritual growth and unity.

Empowered Community
Makamure community members are now empowered to:
1) Share Knowledge: Exchange ideas on farming best practices, pest management, and health.
2) Support Each Other: Assist one another in times of need.
3) Develop Their Community: Work together to improve their overall well-being.

The Foundations for Farming program has been a game-changer for the Makamure community. By promoting unity, cooperation, and collective development, it has brought hope and transformation to a once-divided community. Fountain of Hope's initiative has undoubtedly made a lasting impact, empowering community members to build a brighter future together.

Comments from Gideon           

Fountain of Hope deeply appreciates the unwavering support from Bright Hope World. Since April 2024, the Makamure community has witnessed remarkable and transformative changes aimed at improving the quality of life and bringing hope and the light of Jesus Christ.

Some of the notable developments in Makamure include the establishment of a nutritious garden at Makamure Primary School. This garden plays a pivotal role in equipping children with essential agricultural skills. By teaching agriculture at an early age, we are confident that the community’s future will be transformed. In addition, the establishment of a water project has significantly contributed to improving the school pass rate in the community. Currently, Fountain of Hope supports 195 children at this primary school. Thanks to the garden, agricultural lessons no longer require students to travel far but can now take place within the school premises.

In Gwenere Village, one of the villages in Makamure, the community is enthusiastically working on establishing an orchard, which holds great potential for providing nutritious meals in the future. Moreover, a new preschool has been established in the village to cater to orphans and vulnerable children from Makamure and surrounding areas. It is heartening to report that children who previously lacked access to education are now attending school in this community. This is a milestone development, offering education to children who will one day rise above the challenges of poverty.

Furthermore, 19 young people from the community have been equipped with skills to help them earn a living in today’s harsh economic environment. They received training in various fields, including carpentry, motor mechanics, building, hotel and tourism management, plumbing, and solar technology. Some are already employed, while others are gaining practical experience through attachments in their respective fields. Notably, one of the young men trained in agriculture has become one of the top tomato farmers in Matabeleland Province, Zimbabwe.

The Foundations for Farming training is bearing significant fruit in the community. Many residents are eager to participate in this program, and we are now planning to extend it to other villages within Makamure and even to neighbouring communities.

We remain profoundly grateful to Bright Hope World for their continuous support.

Emerging Fountain of Hope Leaders

Xetsha Ayanda Hlongwane - Technical Director, Fountain of Hope Foundation
Xetsha Ayanda Hlongwane is an accomplished Technical Director with a wealth of experience and expertise gained through over 15 years of dedicated service at the Fountain of Hope Foundation. Since joining the organization in January 2009, he has played an instrumental role in driving impactful projects that have propelled the foundation’s mission forward.

Xetsha possesses a dynamic blend of skills that set him apart as a leader in his field.
- Technical Expertise: With a strong technical background and an acute understanding of emerging technologies and trends, Xetsha brings innovative solutions to complex challenges.
-  Leadership: His ability to lead and inspire technical teams fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, ensuring organizational goals are met with excellence.               
- Strategic Thinking: Xetsha excels in developing and implementing technical strategies that seamlessly align with the broader objectives of the foundation.                         
- Effective Communication: He bridges the gap between technical concepts and non-technical stakeholders, enabling clear understanding and cohesive teamwork.                 

Born and educated in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Xetsha completed his advanced-level education and pursued further technical training, becoming a certified IT expert at a leading college in Bulawayo. Prior to joining Fountain of Hope, he enhanced his skill set with Youth With A Mission in Cape Town, South Africa, completing training programs in Discipleship, Media, and Leadership. His commitment to continuous learning saw him further expand his capabilities in solar installation technology, borehole survey techniques, and electrical training—all of which have significantly contributed to the foundation’s success.

Beyond his professional achievements, Xetsha is a devoted family man, balancing his career with his roles as a husband and father of two children. His personal and professional journey exemplifies integrity, dedication, and a passion for making a meaningful impact in the community.

Under his technical stewardship, the Fountain of Hope Foundation continues to thrive, implementing sustainable solutions and empowering communities for a brighter future.

Mrs Sibonginkosi Phili - Administrator
Our dedicated and passionate administrator, Mrs Sibonginkosi Phili, has been the backbone of Fountain of Hope since June 2015. With a strong foundation in administrative skills, honed through training in Bulawayo, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional organizational abilities.

Key Strengths:
- Administrative Expertise: With a keen eye for detail, she maintains impeccable records, ensuring Fountain of Hope's recognition as one of the best organizations in the Chivi district.
- Leadership: Her leadership prowess has been instrumental in steering the organization through challenging times, showcasing her ability to remain steadfast and focused.
- Passion for Excellence: She strives for order and excellence in all aspects of her work, driving Fountain of Hope's growth and success.

She is emerging as one of the leaders of Fountain of Hope, with a heart to develop the organization and empower downtrodden communities in Zimbabwe. Her dedication to serving others and fostering positive change is evident in her work.

Our administrator's tireless efforts, passion for excellence, and leadership qualities have been instrumental in Fountain of Hope's success. Her dedication and commitment to the organization's mission are truly valued and appreciated.

Gugulethu Makoni 
Gugulethu Makoni is a dynamic and compassionate assistant at Fountain of Hope Foundation, dedicated to transforming the lives of orphans and vulnerable children. Her passion for development and community upliftment drives her work.

Key Strengths:
- Psychosocial Support: She runs impactful psychosocial support programs, empowering vulnerable children and their communities.
- Etiquette Expertise: With training in etiquette, she brings order and excellence to the organization, showcasing her attention to detail.
- Beauty Therapy: Holding a diploma in beauty therapy, she aims to uplift downtrodden women in society.

Gugulethu is an emerging leader, leveraging her faith and passion to inspire others. As a youthful preacher of the Word of God, she:
- Leads Youth Groups: She runs and leads youth groups at church, fostering spiritual growth.
- Reaching Out: She helps Fountain of Hope connect with young people, promoting the organization's mission.

Gugulethu Makoni is a shining example of dedication, compassion, and leadership. Her work at Fountain of Hope Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children and communities.

Gideon and Jennifer

Gideon and Jennifer Chishamba are a married couple, both born and raised in Zimbabwe. They are part of YWAM (Youth With A Mission) Zimbabwe, and their passion lies in empowering and developing downtrodden communities within Zimbabwe and beyond. The couple currently reside in a rented apartment in Bulawayo, where they live with 14 orphaned and vulnerable children. They do not yet own a house of their own and are working towards acquiring personal land to build their home.

Gideon and Jennifer take immense joy in working as part of a team, as they believe in the power and strength that teamwork brings. They have built a team of 16 individuals who share their passion for bringing hope to the hopeless children of Zimbabwe. In 2022, Gideon battled meningitis, and by the grace of God, his health has significantly improved.

This couple has contributed to the development of many impoverished communities, including Mthombothemba, where they facilitated the construction of dams. They also helped transform the community from one rooted in ancestral worship to one centred on worshipping God. Today, Mthombothemba is a Christian community as a result of their efforts. 

Personal Stories

Mr Topera 

My name is Mr Topera, and I come from the Makamure community, a place long burdened by hunger, poverty, and starvation. Since my youth, I had never witnessed anyone in our community harvesting crops that could sustain us. Year after year, we travelled far and wide seeking food, relying heavily on handouts from the government and organizations like Christian Care.

Our inherited land, passed down from our forefathers, has always been infertile and unable to sustain crops. This barren land was not our original home. During the days of colonization, our forefathers were forcibly displaced from fertile land and abandoned in the poor soil we live on today. Even after the land redistribution process, we were unable to reclaim the fertile land as it was taken once again, this time by those in positions of power.

However, I am here to share a story of hope and transformation. We give glory to God for Fountain of Hope and its introduction of a new farming technique that is undeniably changing lives. Through this program, we have learned to enrich our land with humus from the bush, and gradually, the infertile soil has begun to sustain crops. Even in years of poor or minimal rainfall, the Foundation for Farming techniques work remarkably well for our land.

Since adopting these practices, I have never experienced hunger. Last year, despite unfavourable rain conditions, I harvested enough food for my family and had surplus to spare. This year, I anticipate another bountiful harvest, sufficient to not only feed my family but also to support widows and orphans in our community.

Fountain of Hope has brought us more than agricultural knowledge. Through the Bible studies integrated into the program, we have become a community united in purpose, growth, and care. Together, we have learned to support one another, especially the most vulnerable among us. After every harvest, I commit to sharing my surplus with the Church to help feed the hungry ourselves. I am confident that if every member of this community were trained in this revolutionary method of farming, Makamure would no longer be synonymous with hunger and poverty.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Fountain of Hope for the incredible work they are doing. Your impact is profound and deeply appreciated.

Blessed 

My name is Blessed Chisheibei, and I am deeply grateful to Fountain of Hope for transforming my life and giving me a chance to dream again. I come from the Makamure community, where I was forced to drop out of school due to a lack of funds for school fees. Losing access to education crushed the passion and dreams I had for the future. I envisioned working one day to support my two younger siblings, who were struggling in primary school without essentials like food, school uniforms, and fees.

Like many other young people from my village, I felt hopeless and joined others who had also dropped out of school. Together, we became trapped in substance abuse, spending days intoxicated and aimless. But one day, everything changed. A pastor working with Fountain of Hope saw me and offered me help. I realized I needed to break free from this destructive cycle and quickly embraced the opportunity.

Soon after, I was taken to Peniel Centre, where Fountain of Hope gave me not only hope but also a chance to learn a skill that could shape my future. I chose building as my trade, and thanks to their training, I am now proudly working as a builder in Bulawayo. Fountain of Hope not only equipped me with valuable skills but also helped me escape the grip of drugs that were ruining my life.

Today, I am independent and able to rent an apartment for myself while supporting my siblings in their education. I am determined to ensure they complete school and achieve their dreams, something I never thought possible for myself.

Fountain of Hope saved me from a life of despair and gave me a second chance at success. For that, I am forever thankful.

Tadiwa 

My name is Tadiwa, and I come from the Makamure community. Life wasn't easy for me growing up—my parents divorced when I was still a child, each moving on to start new families. This left me alone and hopeless in the care of my frail grandfather, who sadly passed away before I could complete my education. His death marked a turning point in my life, forcing me to drop out of school without any skills or training to rely on. I had no hope, no passion, and no clear path forward. Each day was filled with questions like, "Where is my life headed? What can I possibly achieve?"—questions that always remained unanswered.

Everything changed when I learned about Fountain of Hope. Without waiting for assistance, I packed my few belongings and went straight to Peniel Centre to ask for training. I am so grateful that they listened to my story and accepted me. They guided me in choosing the right course, and plumbing turned out to be the perfect fit. Through their support, I embarked on this journey, and today I am on attachment, gaining hands-on experience and building a brighter future for myself and my family.

Thanks to Fountain of Hope, I have travelled across Zimbabwe, taking on plumbing jobs and proving to myself what I am capable of. A once hopeless young man with no home or direction now has a place at Peniel Centre, a purpose, and dreams for the future. I look forward to completing my course successfully and one day starting my own plumbing company in Zimbabwe.

To Fountain of Hope, thank you for believing in me and transforming my life.

Partnership's Influence within the Community

Please find below the speech by the community chief: 

On behalf of my people, I would like to hereby extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Fountain of Hope Foundation. There are very few organisations that operate with the same commitment and values as this remarkable foundation. They did not come to our community as outsiders with a detached mission—they came to integrate into our community, to walk alongside us, and to partner with us in transforming our lives.

What stands out most about Fountain of Hope is their unique approach to Community Development. From the outset, they sought to build a meaningful relationship with us. They didn’t position themselves as our bosses or as bearers of solutions; instead, they worked hand-in-hand with us to confront our challenges together, step by step. This model of collaboration has fostered a sense of ownership, trust, and shared purpose.

We are especially grateful that Fountain of Hope brought the word of God into our lives, introducing many of us to Christ. Through their efforts, countless members of our community have found faith and spiritual fulfilment.

Beyond the spiritual impact, this organisation has been instrumental in helping us overcome hunger and starvation. Through their guidance and the introduction of Foundations for Farming and pfumvudza plots, many families now have sustainable food sources. Our days of despair have turned into days of hope and abundance.

Fountain of Hope has also focused on empowering our youth. Thanks to their programs, many of our unemployed young people have gained practical skills and trades that allow them to earn a living and contribute positively to the community. Today, we are proud to say we have trained agriculturists, mechanics, plumbers, cooks, and hairdressers among us.

Education has also seen a remarkable transformation. Through the water and garden projects initiated by Fountain of Hope at Rungai Primary School, Makamure Primary School, and Chiwanza High School, our schools' pass rates have significantly improved. The children are healthier and better nourished, and they have the resources they need to focus on their studies.

Our villages have also experienced a renaissance, with gardens providing green vegetables and fresh produce for families. This not only improves our diets but also brings a renewed sense of pride and dignity to our homes.

To Fountain of Hope Foundation: we are deeply thankful for the profound impact you have made in this community. Your dedication to walking with us, empowering us, and uplifting us is a testament to what true service looks like. May your work continue to flourish and bring hope to many more communities. 

Ideas and Plans for Makamure Community Projects

Foundations for Farming Project

FOH aim to expand this project to all villages in Makamure, with the goal of training 500 farmers annually. Additionally, they plan to support 250 farmers each year by providing them with essential farming inputs. To enhance food security within the community, they also seek to diversify into cultivating small grains such as sorghum, millet, groundnuts, roundnuts, and cowpeas. This initiative will not only improve nutrition but also promote sustainable farming practices tailored to the region's needs. Their vision is to see all farmers in this community practising foundations for farming.

Nutrition Gardens

Plans are underway to establish nutrition gardens in Gwenere Village, Chamanhanzva High School, and Magwari Primary School. These gardens will serve multiple purposes:
- Training school children in agricultural practices and preparing them as future agricultural experts.
- Providing fresh vegetables to the schools, reducing their reliance on external food sources.
- Promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices among students
- Introducing irrigation systems to ensure the gardens thrive even during dry seasons, and hosting workshops for community members to learn about nutrition and gardening.

Establishment of a Bridging School and Pre-School in Madzvivire Village

The village currently lacks nearby schools, resulting in a high dropout rate and low literacy levels. The nearest school, Makamure Primary School, has got a river in between to contend with and Fountain of Hope is already running a feeding program at this school to increase school pass rate amongst orphans and vulnerable children. To address this issue, they propose the following:
- A community-based bridging school to reintegrate students who dropped out of school, allowing them to continue their education within their village.
- A pre-school to ensure younger children can access early childhood education without traveling long distances—currently up to 12km—to the nearest school. This initiative will significantly boost literacy rates and increase school attendance in the community.
- Incorporating adult literacy classes for parents and other residents to empower them with basic education and skills.

Skills Training for Youth

To combat high unemployment rates among young people in Makamure, FOH aim to provide skills training programs tailored to their needs. These programs will equip them with employable skills, fostering opportunities for both formal employment and entrepreneurship.

Creating partnerships with local businesses and organizations to offer internships and apprenticeships that complement the skills training programs

Current Issues and Challenges

Climate Challenges: Communities in Region 5 of Zimbabwe, including Makamure, often experience little to no rainfall during the rainy season. This leads to food insecurity and hampers agricultural activities.

Economic Hardships: Zimbabwe's economic instability affects the budget for community projects. Inflation and limited access to financial support make it difficult for organisations like Fountain of Hope to sustain their initiatives.

Health and Education: While there have been improvements, challenges remain in ensuring access to healthcare and education for vulnerable children in the Makamure community. Efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and provide psychosocial support are ongoing.

Social Issues: Child protection and combating practices like child marriages require continuous effort. Fountain of Hope works to uphold children's rights and provide them with opportunities for a better future.

Political Uncertainty: Political dynamics, including contested elections, creates an unstable environment, impacting community development efforts 

Prayer and Praise Points

Prayer

1) Please join in praying for Gideon and Jennifer to secure a place of their own in Zimbabwe as the owner of the house they are currently living in is selling the property
2) Please pray for the improvement of the economic and political situation in Zimbabwe. Pray for peace and stability in the country.
3) Pray for the FOH staff members to have sufficient finances to cover their basic needs, as life in Zimbabwe is currently very expensive.
4) Pray for the orphans and vulnerable children at Peniel Centre to have enough food, clothing, and finances for school fees

Praise 

1) Praise God for the improved pass rates at Makamure Primary School and Chiwanza High School, thanks to the involvement of Fountain of Hope.
2) Praise God that Fountain of Hope is recognized as one of the top organizations in Chivi District, delivering sustainable solutions to impoverished communities.
3) Praise God for the rain that Makamure Community received this year.
4) Praise God for the flourishing gardens in the Makamure Community