In Zongoene, Mozambique, a local organization assisted by a Peace Corps volunteer has leveraged support from the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to assist orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs) affected by HIV/AIDS through agriculture and beekeeping.
This project is designed to augment food consumption among families in need, teach efficient farming techniques and generate income for families selling excess production.
In support of this project, the Government of Mozambique granted 50 plots of land, allowing members of the community to grow fruits and vegetables for 50 families, including 120 OVCs. Nearly all of the community members involved in the project are women who work together on communal plots to provide for their families.
Despite difficulties resulting from rain and flooded fields, participants are pleased with their progress and are confident that this project will be successful. Their enthusiasm, close relationship with the local government and use of agriculture experts - together with a dedicated group of families working the fields - have translated into a successful pilot.
This project is supported by the PEPFAR "Small Grants Program" to assist Mozambican organizations as they develop capacity in HIV/AIDS prevention. Currently, the Small Grants program supports projects in every province of Mozambique except Cabo Delgado.
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