In the Halisdale community of Umguza District, Matabeleland North, Mrs. Nonsikelelo Mthombeni’s journey reflects the resilience of caregivers determined to keep their families together despite deep economic hardship. For years, persistent droughts and limited livelihood opportunities made daily survival a struggle. The family relied on irregular piece jobs that were barely enough to put food on the table, and the pressure eventually forced her three primary school–aged sons to drop out of school.
This difficult chapter began to change when Nonsikelelo’s family was enrolled in the SOS Children’s Villages Family Strengthening Service. Through core assessments and a carefully developed Family Development Plan, the family’s potential was identified, and they were selected to benefit from a poultry income-generating activity. Beyond start-up support, the programme focused on building long-term capacity. Nonsikelelo participated in financial literacy, business management, and broiler production training facilitated by partners including Hamara and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. These skills strengthened her confidence and ability to manage a sustainable enterprise.
With technical guidance from government extension workers and SOS Children’s Villages officers, Nonsikelelo received an initial batch of 50 vaccinated chicks, along with feed and essential equipment. From this first cycle, she sold 45 broilers at USD 7 each, earning USD 315. While profits were modest after restocking costs, the income marked a turning point. For the first time, she was able to put a school fees payment plan in place at Ekukhanyeni Primary School, allowing her children to return to class.
The impact of this stability quickly became visible. Her eldest son, Benjamin, now in Grade 5, began excelling both academically and beyond the classroom. He has since won medals at district, provincial, and national levels in chess, an achievement made possible by the renewed hope and consistency in his education.
Encouraged by her progress, Nonsikelelo independently restocked with 100 vaccinated chicks. Through careful management, she sold all the broilers, earning USD 700 and making an approximate profit of USD 244. Her success has also inspired at least five other families in the community to start their own poultry projects, enabling them to better meet school fees, household needs, and essential expenses.
Reflecting on her journey, Nonsikelelo shares,
“This is the first time I am earning income through farming. SOS Children’s Villages Zimbabwe and its partners have truly changed our lives.”
Her story goes beyond income generation. By strengthening her ability to provide for her household, the Family Strengthening Service has reduced the pressures that often place families at risk of separation. Today, her children are growing up in a stable, nurturing home under the care of a confident and empowered parent. Nonsikelelo’s journey powerfully demonstrates how supporting caregivers not only transforms livelihoods but also safeguards children’s right to family care and a hopeful future.