The slow growth in the economy, rising unemployment, difficulties associated with the protection of basic social services in the face of a changing economic environment pose great development challenges for all Zimbabweans. However, the magnitude and implications of these problems are more severe for young people especially girls in the rural areas as they lack basic opportunities for their development. As they navigate the school-to-work transition, their control over their own destiny and their employment choices is limited.

During community consultations by the TG Silundika Cultural Community Centre, one of the major issues that came up in the small community of Gala in Bulilima District was the issue of high unemployment and lack of disposable income amongst local youths and women. Inadequacy of the educational curriculum for current job markets in both the formal and informal sectors, limited access to information on youth and women development programmes, skills training courses, jobs, start-up funding for income generating activities and limited experience, lack of appropriate role models, and lack of youth and women centred development programmes were mentioned as the major problems. Women highlighted that due to their multiple roles in the community they find it difficult to provide for their households as they have limited opportunities to take part in income generating activities. Therefore, they consider themselves as not being considered in development programs in their communities.

It is against this background that TGSCCC has decided to intervene and organize a workshop to develop the capacity of the young women and single mothers in the technical skills of sewing, bead making, basketry, fashion design, dressmaking and basic marketing skills training. The ripple effect of this intervention will benefit not only the direct beneficiaries and their families but also their communities and the nation at large.