Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
Hope for Zimbabwe Children (HFZC) is dedicated to fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all, particularly for youth, women, and marginalized groups. Our approach is multi-faceted, addressing employment, livelihoods, and the eradication of exploitation and human trafficking. Hope for Zimbabwe Children is dedicated to fostering inclusive growth and creating sustainable economic opportunities, particularly for young people and women in agriculture and production activities. Our mission prioritizes decent employment and secures livelihoods across the community, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender or ability, have access to fair job opportunities and equal pay for their contributions. To achieve these goals, we collaborate with various organizations, enhancing the sustainable governance of natural resources and promoting policies that support sustainable tourism. This approach not only creates jobs but also celebrates and supports local cultures and products. Our organization actively employs volunteers currently numbering thirty-five (35) some of whom hold permanent positions while others serve temporarily. We emphasize the inclusion of women in our construction projects, actively encouraging their participation, which helps empower them and build skills within the community. Additionally, we strive to strengthen local financial institutions to expand access to banking and financial services, further facilitating employment and training for youth.
A core tenet of our mission is the elimination of child labor, modern slavery, and human trafficking. Through awareness campaigns, school outreach, community walks, and information dissemination, we aim to educate the public and raise awareness about these critical issues. We also maintain a confidential reporting system that allows community members to report cases of exploitation or abuse. We take these reports seriously, following up with authorities and assisting in the rescue and rehabilitation of victims. Our rescue program is designed to take immediate and effective action to eradicate forced labor and modern slavery, working towards the prohibition and elimination of child labor in all forms. By protecting labor rights and promoting safe working environments, particularly for women, we contribute to a fairer and more equitable society for all. Through our collective efforts, we envision a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, free from exploitation and injustice thus we create good and decent jobs
Employment Opportunities and Decent Work – An overview of our key initiatives:
1. Diverse Job Creation: HFZC is committed to creating diverse employment opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, production, and construction. We focus on providing good and decent jobs for all, with a special emphasis on women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
2. Inclusive Hiring Practices: We prioritize inclusive hiring practices in our programs. For instance, we currently employ 35 volunteers—both permanent and temporary—across our humanitarian efforts. We also encourage the involvement of women in construction projects, reinforcing gender equality in traditionally male-dominated fields.
3. Youth Employment: Our programs are designed to significantly reduce the proportion of youth who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET). By providing skills training, job placement support, and entrepreneurial opportunities, we aim to empower young people and integrate them into the workforce.
Strengthening Financial Inclusion
1. Banking and Financial Services: HFZC works to strengthen domestic financial institutions, expanding access to banking and financial services for all, including marginalized communities. We support initiatives that promote financial literacy and inclusion, particularly for women and youth.
2. Support for Self-Help Projects: We provide financial assistance and training for self-help projects, helping individuals start small businesses and gain economic independence. This approach not only creates jobs but also fosters entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.
Promoting Sustainable Governance and Tourism
Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
1. Partnerships for Sustainable Governance: HFZC partners with other organizations to promote the sustainable governance of natural resources. Our initiatives include advocating for policies that ensure the responsible use and management of these resources.
2. Sustainable Tourism: We encourage the development of sustainable tourism practices that create jobs and promote local culture and products. By supporting community-based tourism projects, we aim to boost local economies while preserving cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.
Eliminating Child Labour, Modern Slavery, and Human Trafficking
Awareness and Advocacy
1. Campaigns and Education: HFZC runs extensive awareness campaigns to eliminate child labour, modern slavery, and human trafficking. We conduct educational programs in schools, organize public walks, and distribute information to raise awareness about these critical issues.
2. Reporting and Rescue: We have a confidential reporting system where community members and the public can report cases of exploitation and trafficking. Our team follows up on these reports, working with authorities to rescue victims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Protection and Support
1. Immediate Action: Through our rescue program, we take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery, and eliminate the worst forms of child labour. Our focus is on protecting labour rights and promoting safe and secure working environments for all workers, with particular attention to women and children.
2. Safe Working Conditions: We advocate for and work towards the establishment of safe and secure working conditions across all sectors. By promoting fair labour practices and protecting workers’ rights, we aim to create a more equitable and humane working environment.
Our Vision for a Fair and Inclusive Economy
HFZC envisions a Zimbabwe where every individual has the opportunity to achieve their full potential through meaningful employment and economic empowerment. By focusing on inclusive growth, sustainable resource management, and the eradication of exploitation, we are committed to building a just and prosperous society. We invite you to support our mission and join us in creating a more equitable and inclusive future for all Zimbabweans. Together, we can drive positive change, promote sustainable development, and ensure that every person has the opportunity to thrive.