Zimbabwe: Turning Hope into Action: Empowering Women and Youth in Ruwa

Councillor Charles Humbato’s journey as a driver of change in Ward 7, Ruwa Local Board, began when he assumed office in 2023 and immediately confronted the deep socio-economic challenges facing women and youth. He observed widespread unemployment, idleness among young people, rising drug and substance abuse, and early marriages-all rooted in the lack of meaningful livelihood opportunities. Determined to transform his community, he committed himself to empowering those most affected, especially women and youth. 

Humbato mobilised local leaders, churches, schools, and youth representatives to design practical empowerment initiatives that could restore dignity and self-reliance. He partnered with skilled trainers, microfinance institutions, and development organisations to provide hands-on training in baking, detergent making, natural fruit processing, poultry production, waste recycling, beauty therapy, welding, bricklaying, housekeeping, driving, and financial literacy. Through the Ruwa Local Board, he secured venues, equipment, and coordination support to ensure that the programmes were accessible to everyone. 

Over 300 women and youth were trained, and the transformation quickly became visible. Small enterprises began to flourish, household incomes improved, and young people who once spent their days idle found purpose in entrepreneurship, sports, and structured mentorship programmes. “Empowerment is the bridge between poverty and progress. When women and youth are empowered, entire communities rise” said Humbato.  

The impact was not only economic but also social. School attendance improved, drug and substance abuse noticeably declined, and families reported better nutrition and stability. The positive change became evident through growing local brands of detergents, bread, natural fruit products, and poultry supplies now sold in the community’s markets. 

Women like Evernice Chirinzi represent the heart of this transformation. Before joining the programme, she struggled with poverty and had no source of steady income, but today she runs a baobab processing enterprise producing baobab drink and baobab coffee. Reflecting on her journey, Evernice Chirinzi shared, “Before the training, I had no source of income. Today, I run my baobab products manufacturing company, and I am able to provide for my children with dignity. This empowerment has restored my confidence and given me financial independence.” 

Young people were equally transformed. Constance Chimwaruza, once uncertain about her future, found hope and independence through poultry farming. “As a young person, I was losing hope, but the Ward 7 women empowerment program helped me start a poultry project that now sustains my family” said Chimwaruza.  

With growing confidence among participants, the programme’s sustainability now rests in community-owned cooperatives, mentorship structures, and ongoing partnerships with development institutions. Many graduates are training new participants, while financial partners like ADAT (Africa Development Alliance Trust in Zimbabwe) are working closely with Humbato to support women and youth with microloans and business guidance. Plans are underway to expand into tailoring, solar energy, and gardening, ensuring that no one is left behind. 

The evidence of success is documented in training registers, community surveys, school reports, police data, photos, local videos, and media coverage all confirming that Ward 7 has undergone real, measurable change. What began as a vision has grown into a living model of inclusive local development, driven by commitment, collaboration, and community resilience. 

Through his leadership, Councillor Humbato has not only empowered individuals but has reshaped the spirit of Ward 7. The community now stands as a powerful example of what becomes possible when ordinary citizens are given the skills, resources, and confidence to build their own future. 

 By: Charles Humbato