UNDP and Ministry of Finance and Economic Development Second Joint Monitoring Visit Report

Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Midlands 20-25 August, 2017

ACRONYMS

GoZ Government of Zimbabwe

IPRSP Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

MoFED Ministry of Finance and Economic Development

DA District Administrator

IGSL Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Livelihoods

SMEs Small and Medium Enterprises

IMU International Monitoring Unit

GMB Grain Marketing Board

ZUNDAF Zimbabwe United Nations Development Assistance Framework

ZIMASSET Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation

SDGs Sustainable Development Goals

SACCO Community Savings and Credit Cooperative

ZRP Zimbabwe Republic Police

REA Rural Electrification Agency

IRBM Integrated Results Based Management

Table of Contents

ACRONYMS ...... 2 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ...... 5 Executive Summary ...... 7 Introduction ...... 8 DAY 1 -21 AUGUST 2017 ...... 8 GOKWE SOUTH ...... 8 Activity 1: Courtesy call with Gokwe South District Administrator (DA) ...... 8 Activity 2: Project Site Visit -Gawa SACCO ...... 9 Project Sites Description ...... 9 Site 1: Gokwe - Gawa SACCOs ...... 10 Physical input: ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Capacity Building ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Gawa Hardware Centre and Wanaka Cooperative, Gokwe South ...... 10 Background on Gawa Saving and Credit Cooperative -Chairperson ...... 11 IGSL Project Impact as Reported by Beneficiaries ...... 11 Challenges Faced by Gawa SACCO as Reported by Beneficiaries ...... 13 DAY 2 -22 August 2017...... 13 LUPANE ...... 13 Activity 1: Meeting with Lupane DA ...... 13 Activity 2: Project Site Visit -St Luke’s ...... 14 Background on St. Luke’s SACCO ...... 14 IGSL Project Impact as Reported by Beneficiaries ...... 14 Challenges Faced by Gawa SACCO as Reported by Beneficiaries ...... 16 Activity 3: Project Site Visit - Baobab Processing Center ...... 17 Project Impact According to Beneficiaries ...... 17 Activity 4: Project Site Visit -REA Electrification project ...... 18 DAY 3 -23 AUGUST 2017 ...... 19 BINGA ...... 19 Activity 1: Courtesy Call with DA, Mrs Abigail Mumpenda ...... 19 Challenges faced in Binga Rural District Council as Highlighted by Binga Assistant DA: ...... 19 DAY 4 -24 AUGUST 2017 ...... 19

GWANDA ...... 19 Activity 1: Courtesy call with DA Gwanda Rural District Council ...... 19 Activity 2: Meeting with DA Gwanda Rural District Council ...... 20 Activity 3: Project Site Visit -Mthandazo Women Mining Service Centre ...... 20 Remarks from Chairperson of Mtandazo Women Miners Association ...... 22 Recommendations and lessons learned from the joint monitoring visits ...... 22

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS Below is the detailed list of participants who participated and contributed to the success of the Second Joint Monitoring Visit

No FULL NAME ORGANISATION ID. NO. CONTACT NO.

Finance & Economic Mr. Forbes Kanogwere Development 75 – 272778 L75 0776 372 694 1. Finance & Economic Ms. Auxillia. Ndaona Development 75 – 370096 R50 0773 686 980 2. Finance & Economic Mr. Eliam Mutsata Development 59 – 086017 F42 0773 266 474 3. Finance & Economic Mr. Jacob. Gamu Development 22 – 216829 B13 0773 170 380 4. Finance & Economic Mr. Romeo Mugariri Development 07 – 143021 C07 0783 806 659 5. Finance & Economic Mr. Tony. Chikura Development 23 – 048555 B66 0771 481 501 6. Finance & Economic Mrs. Loveness Sithole Development 44 – 015368 Q44 0772 678 180 7. Small & Medium Mr. D. Nyakonda Enterprises & Coop. Development 42 – 067707 S42 0773 280 893 8. Public Service, Labour Ms. Mildred Mapani and Social Welfare 63 -1353259 R34 0783 894 226 9. Women Affairs, Mr. Brian Guyo Gender & Com. Development 59 – 008524 Z04 0773 555 382 10.

Local Government Mr Sign Chirumarara Public Works and National Housing 63-627221 X43 0772 305 775 11. Finance & Economic Mrs. Arina Manyanya Development 27 -017010 P25 0712 875 537 12. Rural Electrification Mr. Lucas Mkucha Agency 13. Corra Magiya UNDP 14.

Ethel Bangwayo UNDP 15. Blessing Muchemwa UNDP 16. Wadzanai Madombwe UNDP 17. Anne Madzara UNDP 18.

Executive Summary

A four-day joint monitoring visit was carried out from the 20-25 August 2017 in Gokwe South, Lupane, Binga and Gwanda Districts. A delegation comprising of representatives from the Government of Zimbabwe and UNDP had the opportunity to visit project sites being implemented under Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Livelihoods (IGSL); Strengthening Local Government Service Delivery Capacity for Sustainable and Inclusive Development; IPRSP project sites specifically the Rural Electrification and Bulawayo Kraal Irrigation Scheme projects. Representation from GoZ in the monitoring visits consisted of various ministries and agencies such as Ministry of Finance & Economic Development, Ministry of Local Government Public Works and National Housing, Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender & Community Development, Ministry of Small & Medium Enterprises & Cooperative Development, Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare as well as the Ministry of Lands & Rural Resettlement as other government agencies such as Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ).

The delegation’s tour kicked off in Gokwe South district with site visits to the IGSL project at Gawa Hardware Centre. While there, the delegation met with the Wanaka Cooperative and learned about their goat breeding and grain storing activities. The delegation also visited Gawa Hardware which is owned by the Gawa Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO), and provides a source of supplementary income for the group. The convenience of having a store nearby that sells farming equipment and animal medication was noted by the community members as one of the significant benefits of Gawa Hardware.

In Lupane district, the delegation had the opportunity to visit the Fundani SACCO that was provided with capital and institutional capacity support by UNDP and the GoZ funded Bulawayo Kraal Irrigation Scheme and Rural Electrification Project. In Binga district the delegation visited the newly built Baobab Processing Centre facility in Manjolo Ward, and received a presentation on the Integrated Results Based Management (IRBM) system that demonstrated effect and impact. Finally in Gwanda district, the delegation visited Gwanda Mthandazo Women Mining Service Centre, a UNDP funded project which promotes gender mainstreaming in the mining sector as well as empowering women to participate in work that is traditionally perceived to be male occupations.

The outcomes of the visit were that the delegation got to understand the impact of collaboration between GoZ, UNDP and partners. The delegation also witnessed the manner in which the monitored projects have tangibly transformed households and communities enabling them to fend for their households and realise surplus for their personal savings. The delegation proposed some steps to be taken to increase impact within these projects, as highlighted further in the Recommendations and Lessons Learned section. Of interest was the need for harmonization between development partners so that they work together, complimenting each other’s work to maximise impact for project beneficiaries. In addition, the delegation raised the need for a national aid coordination system to assist with programme targeting depending on need.

Introduction

During the UNDP Project Board meeting of the 11th of July 2017, it was confirmed that the Head of Ministry had approved joint UNDP and Government of Zimbabwe monitoring visits for UNDP funded programmes. The I-PRSP Secretariat representatives made a request to participate in the joint GOZ/UNDP monitoring visits.

This was in view of the fact that the I-PRSP Secretariat also had plans to undertake monitoring visits for Government of Zimbabwe funded programs and projects during the 3rd quarter of 2017. The justification being that this approach is beneficial for the following reasons:  The I-PRSP Secretariat will use the opportunity as a practical skills development exercise that will build capacity for monitoring and evaluation of the Strategy early 2018.  The line ministry officials participating are in most instances the same focal persons required for the I-PRSP and within the same period.  There will be optimal use of human and financial resources if this is done jointly.  The I-PRSP Secretariat will take advantage as to operationalize the I-PRSP Monitoring and Evaluation Framework that was developed with support from the UNDP and World Bank.

Project staff (both UNDP and the Government of Zimbabwe) participated in monitoring visits to UNDP funded projects as a follow up to the Monitoring and Evaluation framework for the country’s Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (I-PRSP), which will be used as the SDG M&E framework subject to additional sections being added to cover areas where the SDGs and I-PRSP do not overlap. The joint monitoring visit provided capacity building and practical skills training on monitoring and evaluation of IPRSP projects as well as provided a platform for the operationalization of the I-PRSP Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, whilst documenting progress UNDP has also made in the implementation of its projects. This report focuses on the second leg of the joint monitoring visits which took place between 20-25 August, 2017.

The overall structure of the report is consistent with the goal of outlining the activities undertaken, the discussions held, reviewing the challenges faced and providing recommendations and lessons learned to apply to future monitoring visits. To this end, the report is structured into the different days of the four day visit highlighting the discussions that ensued. The report closes with a chapter outlining challenges, recommendations and lessons learned for the improvement of the next monitoring visit as well as the implementation of both UNDP and GoZ funded projects.

DAY 1 - 21 AUGUST 2017 GOKWE SOUTH DISTRICT

Activity 1: Courtesy call with Gokwe South District Administrator (DA) Time: 8am to 830am Location: District Administrator’s Office, Gokwe South Centre

The delegation consisting of GoZ and UNDP departed Kwekwe district promptly at 6am. The monitoring visit in Gokwe began at 8am with a visit to the District Administrator’s office upon the delegation’s arrival. The delegation met Mr Mashindi, the DA. UNV Shingi Mthabeni under the IGSL project made the introductions of the team. Mrs Manyanya from MoFED was introduced as the leader

of the delegation. Representation from GoZ, as highlighted in the meeting, consisted of various ministries such as Rural Housing, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Women's Affairs, Rural Development, and Public Service, Labour and Social Services. It was explained that the purpose of the monitoring visit to Gokwe South district was to appreciate the projects that are funded by UNDP, monitor progress, learn about challenges and also gain insight into how these UNDP funded projects are complimenting Government of Zimbabwe efforts and contributing to ZIMASSET. Gawa Hardware Centre was stressed as the place to be visited, to understand progress of the project on the ground.

The DA welcomed the delegation in Gokwe and appreciated the purpose of the visit of monitoring project progress. He mentioned that Gokwe is full of hard working people, and he welcomed all the efforts in place by both GoZ and UNDP to improve the people’s livelihoods. The DA continued to express that the people of Gokwe are receptive to government programs and from agencies alike.

At the end of the meeting with the DA, the delegation consisting of UNDP and the government reassembled to manage expectations of the visit. Director of the International Monitoring Unit (IMU) and leader of the delegation, Mrs Manyanya, stated that the monitoring visit is important as it will inform government policy on how to improve projects tackling issues such as gender and sustainability, i.e. assessing the mechanisms in place to ensure the longevity of the project once development partners leave. It was noted that the establishment of markets, the improvement of roads, rural electrification, technology, communications and financial inclusion are key issues that the government needs to address. The delegation was advised to pay special attention to issues raised around the Grain Marketing Board (GMB), particularly how farmers are interacting with the GMB. This information would be used to inform the Command Agriculture programme.

The delegation leader, Mrs Manyanya continued to describe that the joint monitoring visit presented an opportunity for synergies within government. The various line ministries represented were encouraged to reflect on the visit findings and how to incorporate the lessons learned. She also highlighted the importance of being sensitive to group dynamics and the need for flexibility when discussing with project recipients. Sometimes group dynamics can hinder certain groups from voicing their opinions, for example women who may not be perceived to be in a position of power. It is therefore important to take note if such dynamics, and liaise with such groups separately to ensure that their feedback and input is captured.

The UNDP M&E Specialist encouraged the delegation to assess impact and reflect on how the projects contribute to the pillars of ZUNDAF and ZIMASSET. The IGSL relates to IPRSP as it contributes to the country's poverty reduction. It is important to appreciate that the project also contributes to SDGs 1, 2 and 8. The delegation departed at 830am for the IGSL Gawa Hardware project site.

Activity 2: Project Site Visit -Gawa SACCO Time: 10:12am Project Title: Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Livelihoods (IGSL)

Project Sites Description This project aims to tackle poverty by supporting economic activity at grassroots level, particularly targeting women and youth. The objectives of the project are implemented using four mutually reinforcing pillars: 1. Rural Livelihoods support: The project provides some of the poorest communities with the resources (skills, financing, inputs, starter-kits etc.) to enable them to leverage local resources and endowments for sustainable livelihoods and income generation activity using

locally available endowments; 2. Business development support for youth: Technology is harnessed to sustain both rural and urban livelihoods, particularly among the youth through; 3. Capacity building support for sub-national and community based organizations to enable them to implement poverty reduction interventions within and outside the project; 4. Support for policy and national structures in order to strengthen central capacities to design and implement pro-poor national and local development strategies and policies.

The project visited benefit from pillar one, through which the project is facilitating access to micro- credit through the formation of Savings and Credit Cooperatives Societies (SACCOS). SACCOS are also meant to promote financial inclusion in the targeted communities who often cannot access the financial services offered by commercial financial institutions for a number of reasons, primarily cost and access. In addition to seed capital of US$10,000 form UNDP, the members also make a monthly contribution to demonstrate commitment. They then lend the funds to each other for the purpose of starting and growing enterprises (including value addition projects) for income generation, job creation, and ultimately poverty reduction. Through the project, the SACCO members were trained in: Co-operative and business management skills; Financial Management; Tailored value addition skills, and tailored training based on their activity of choice supported by UNDP.

Site 1: Gokwe - Gawa SACCOs Gawa is a registered SACCO with a total membership of 118 members (78 females and 40 male). The SACCO is made up of 15 internal savings and lending schemes that are running different income projects which include goat rearing, poultry (broilers and road runners), sesame, groundnuts and peanut butter production. The SACCO received seed capital worth USD 10 000.00 to support members’ income generating projects. The group used some of the funds to start a hardware shop (Gawa Hardware) which sells a variety of agricultural inputs and building materials, as well as veterinary supplies. The store has helped diversify and supplement members’ income, and has so far created one job (shop assistant).The group has plans to purchase a tractor for use by members, as well as to hire out as an additional income stream. All 118 members were trained in business and cooperative management skills.

Gawa Hardware Shop Gawa Shop assistant

Gawa Hardware Centre and Wanaka Cooperative, Gokwe South Time: 10:12am

The UNDP Project Coordinator for Gokwe South, Ms. Shingi Mthabeni opened the discussion and welcomed the delegates that had visited the cooperative. Mrs Manyanya introduced the delegation

and presented the different government sections that were represented. She encouraged the SACCO members to speak about their experiences with the cooperative, achievements and any struggles that they may be facing. She continued to hammer on the importance of gender representation within the cooperatives, and asked for clarity on the ratios of leadership within the SACCO, i.e. the ratios of men, women and youth.

Background on Gawa Saving and Credit Cooperative -Chairperson The chairperson of Gawa SACCO provided a brief background on the Wanaka Group, detailed below. The Ministry of Women's Affairs initially promoted savings groups/rounds in the region. These groups were primarily for women, and they eventually expanded to include men. When men got involved, the projects started to include keeping chickens for eggs. However, the chicken projects failed as the chickens died due to the weather conditions in the district. The Ministry of SMEs then got involved in the project when the Gawa SACCO was formed, and provided training on community business and banks. The process of registering SACCOs followed, and 118 individuals assembled. They agreed to buy shares for $5 each, and that each member was required to purchase a minimum of 2 shares each. Each month the group contributes $1 to the group account, as a means of saving. The Hardware store was set up in order to plug an identified gap in the local market for agricultural inputs. The community travelled long distances for these supplies. Upon registration of the SACCO, UNDP provided the group with a loan of $10,000. 60% of this was availed to member for borrowing and the other 40% was used to set up the Hardware. Palladium group, through the LFSP project has also provided support to the group, by providing 70% of the total cost of $27,000 towards buying a tractor which is still to be delivered, and the SACCO paid the remaining 30%.

IGSL Project Impact as Reported by Beneficiaries

Gawa members explained that the store has noted increased revenue as the community becomes more aware of its existence. The Hardware store was reported to have significantly improved the lives of the SACCO members as evidenced by their ability to pay school fees, eat better diets and also diversification into other activities such as goat breeding.

In addition to individual projects, small groups within the Gawa SACCO have also come together to set up income generating projects. The delegation visited one of the Gawa sub-groups, Wanaka, who are involved in goat, poultry and peanut production. The spokesperson of Wanaka pointed to the yard where she highlighted the paddock, the goat feed, the fencing and equipment in the yard that was purchased from the success of the Hardware store. There is also improved convenience as the Hardware store also sells medicines and treatment for animals. Instead of going far to Gokwe center to purchase medicines, now they purchase from the SACCO.

In response to climate change, the Wanaka primarily focuses on goat and chicken breeding because they are relatively drought resistant when comparing to cattle rearing. The group also has two boreholes on site to sustain the livestock on site. Climate proofing is essential, so the seed that is sold such as mung bean, sesame seed is promoted in this region as it is drought resistant.

Although the number of jobs created in the hardware is 1 the overall number of jobs in the SACCO, including the work of men, women and youth is 295. This is a welcome figure as employment is a key issue that GoZ has to deal with. In addition to farming, Wanaka group is also involved in value addition of peanuts to make peanut butter which they sell in Gweru. Below are photos of the peanut butter which the group is manufacturing as well as the label of the product.

According to the chairperson, the SACCO is valued at $54,500 inclusive of all its assets i.e. tractor, current hardware, stock, grain, infrastructure including the six silos, nut sheller, etc. Wanaka group consists of 10 members with equal distribution between men and women.

The GoZ and UNDP delegation was impressed with the manner in which the SACCO model and the hardware had transformed community members’ lives and livelihoods and had brought hope and jobs to households. The impact of the projects to date was visible and was further corroborated by the fact that this SACCOs had to date bred six additional groups who are currently preparing to also set themselves up as SACCOs after observing the success of Gawa. UNDP and the Ministry of SME will, through the project, support the six groups.

Challenges Faced by Gawa SACCO as Reported by Beneficiaries

Outlined below are some of the pertinent issues highlighted by the beneficiaries as the most significant challenges that they SACCO faces. These challenges were welcomed by the delegation leader from MoFED, who stressed GoZ’s interest in improving on projects on the ground, as well as to gather information to that may inform the 2018 National Budget. The beneficiaries underscored the cash crisis and the incapacity to pay school fees for their school children, as explain further below.

Cash shortages have increased the cost of goods on the part of farmers, as Eco-cash charges are too high. In some cases, transacting through Eco-cash is not possible because of the hassle and transacting charges involved which some farmers reject. In response to this grievance, Mrs Manyanya informed the SACCO of GoZ initiatives of low cost accounts used through POSB. She also expressed that there are conversations between GoZ and Econet to come up with solutions concerning lowering the charges. According to MoFED, the issue of financial inclusion for rural populations is a priority for government, and there is commitment to working towards improving it.

The guardians’ ability to pay school fees due to the Zimbabwe cash crisis was also raised as a challenge for farmers in the region. MoFED raised awareness about the BEAM program that improves accessibility of education for orphaned and vulnerable children. She also highlighted that there is also need for GoZ to do more to improve the situation in rural areas.

DAY 2 -22 August 2017 LUPANE DISTRICT

Activity 1: Meeting with Lupane DA Location: Lupane Rural District Council, Lupane Time: 08:45am-10:00am

The meeting kicked off at 9:07am with remarks from the DA Mr Jusa, followed by introductions from the visiting delegation as well as from the DA's office. The delegation from GoZ was represented by RBZ, Women's Affairs, Ministry of Youth, ZRP, Rural Development, MoFED, Public Services Commission and SMEs. The delegation was welcomed by the DA and the floor was opened for comments and discussions.

MoFED extended an invite to the DA to accompany the delegation to the Fundani SACCO project site in order to have an understanding or appreciation of some of the UNDP funded projects. The delegation leader informed the DA that the monitoring visit is an opportunity to learn on how to improve on projects in Lupane, as well as how the projects can inform the 2018 National Budget.

Matebeleland Provinces are known for having the best livestock in the country, but there are

challenges with accessing markets, and the DA encouraged the delegation to consider this matter further. The DA highlighted some of his plans and activities in the district concerning access to markets, and he highlighted that his office has promoted competitive bidding for livestock in Lupane, and he plans to set up a marketplace like Mbare Musika where farmers can come and sell their produce where prices are dictated by the market. Such a market, he stated, would also reduce the significance of middle men, and provide farmers to sell their produce direct to the consumer.

Activity 2: Project Site Visit -St Luke’s Location: St. Luke's SACCO Club Time: 1040am - 12pm

The meeting kicked off with introductions to members of the Fundani SACCO as well as the local councillor who was also in attendance.

Background on St. Luke’s SACCO The SACCO was formed in 2010 with 17 members who had no prior knowledge of how to save or handle money. The Ministry of SMEs provided training on how to manage savings as a SACCO. Through the acquired skills, the SACCO managed to buy an initial 15 goats for the group. In 2016 with UNDP support, the SACCO registered with the Ministry of SMEs and formalized. UNDP provided some funds after the SACCO had presented their work plan. UNDP granted the SACCO a loan of $7,000. Due to heavy rains at that time, the SACCO lost part of their goat herd to floods. The Ministry of SMEs and UNDP continued to provide and facilitate training for the group in the area of goat rearing etc. They were also advised on the type of breed to rear that is adaptable to the local climate, i.e. Matabele and Boer. The individuals contribute $5 per month to their revolving fund, and at the time of the visit $2 100 had been loaned out to the members.

IGSL Project Impact as Reported by Beneficiaries In addition, SACCO members have borrowed money from the SACCO and set up individual income generation projects. To date, members have created a total of 16 jobs in their various enterprises, including the 2 who are employed by the goat rearing project. Through the support of the SACCO, one of the members, Soneni, in the picture below, borrowed funds to set up a catering business and she now has capacity to cater for 380 people per day. Through her tender to cater for Lupane University students, Soneni earns over $3,000 per month and she also makes more from private functions which she is sometimes contracted to cater for. Soneni employs 9 individuals, and she says that she is now able to fend for her households and immediate family.

The issue of non-payment of school fees is now a thing of the past as the SACCO members are now able to meet their family obligations. The SACCO now donates milk to orphans in the local hospital.

Another member of SACCO Sibongile Ndhlovhu in the pictures below has borrowed and diversified into running a flea market. Sibongile‘s stand at the time of the visit was well stocked and she reported that she earns $800 to $1200 in a month, and is able to buy are products and goods from South Africa.

Concilia Nkala, also from the same SACCO now owns a butcher as a result of the SACCO support, and is into cattle buying and slaughtering. She owns 6 cattle, and sales from the butcher range from $2,000 to $3,000 per month. Below are pictures of Concilia in her butcher serving one of her clients.

The three women from this SACCO are the stories of success in Lupane district, and these have inspired the community members and have proved that with hard work and commitment anything is possible, and are testimony to how UNDP support has indeed changes communities and livelihoods.

In addition, using the fund from UNDP, the SACCO owns 109 goats and they intend to grow that number to 400 in 2018.

The plan is to continue to grow to be able to supply abattoirs in Bulawayo and even export. The group is grateful to UNDP and the Ministry for their intervention and continued technical support. The SACCO has been allocated land adjacent to the goat pens where they will grow fodder for the goats. The group indicated that they need further funding and trainings from the Ministry and UNDP until the group reaches sustainability.

Challenges Faced by Gawa SACCO as Reported by Beneficiaries The cash crisis has affected the group, as the buying and selling of goats is problematic because the use of Ecocash is not yet fully understood or established in the region.

Activity 3: Project Site Visit - Baobab Processing Center Time: 430pm -540pm Location: Manjolo Ward, Binga

The meeting with the Turusumpule working group kicked off with introductions from MoFED explaining to the participants of the different government ministries represented by the delegation. Mrs Manyenya explained that the representation by the different ministries government is imperative so that any grievances that may be raised can be addressed with the wholesome attention that they deserve.

She also highlighted the importance of gender and youth representation in the group. Synergising was highlighted as an important aspect of the monitoring visit. She emphasized that the women feel welcome to raise issues about any other areas of concern that they may be facing from the government. This development is important because it promotes synergies for government and UNDP programs.

Project Impact According to Beneficiaries

With UNDP support, a structure/building was constructed for the women to be able to work from as they process baobab fruit into a maheu drink. UNDP has also provided training and support in a number of areas including: business management; cooperative management; hygiene and food handling; support for regulatory compliance; Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) and Government Quality Control certification. The group articulated that with the structure in place, they intend to diversify their income from only baobab processing, and also use the shop space to store groceries for sale when baobabs are out of season – this will help with sustainability as well as consistency of income. The Ministry of Health and Child Care is a key stakeholder involved in the project, and they provide technical assistance on quality and production. The picture below is the label of their product which they confirmed that they will be producing soon.

The group is well versed on the various uses of baobab. They intend to fully exploit the baobab fruit to produce baobab oil and baking soda. However, there is need to exploit this option further or possibly consider selling the seed to larger companies outside of the area that focus on the production of baobab oil.

The delegation also visited Manjolo Business centre, whose member Jessy is still a member of Manjolo SACCO.

This SACCO was supported by UNDP since 2014, and it was a delight to see that Jessy has expanded her business empire to include a bakery that produces 700 loaves a day and 200 buns, as well as a butchery, from just the supermarket she opened in the previous years. Below is a picture of Jessy’s business empire in Binga district.

Activity 4: IPRSP Project Site Visit -REA Electrification project Location: Manjolo Ward, Binga Time 545pm - 550pm

REA contributed to the project by bringing in electricity to the vicinity. REA does the assessments and

feasibility then pulls in the electricity. ZESA then comes to inspect and provide the actual electrical connection. They develop the infrastructure and then hand over to ZESA to make the actual connection. The irrigation scheme already has functional electricity.

DAY 3 -23 AUGUST 2017 BINGA DISTRICT

Activity 1: Courtesy Call with DA, Mrs Abigail Mumpenda Location: DA's Office, Binga Time: 8am-9am

The delegation arrived promptly at the DA's office at 8am. The delegation met Mrs. Abigail Mumpenda, the Assistant DA. Mrs Manyanya, the director of IMU at MoFED was introduced as the leader of the delegation. GoZ representation in the meeting consisted of the various line ministries. The purpose of the visit was explained, which as the delegation leader expressed, was to appreciate the projects that are funded by the partners, monitor progress, learn about challenges and also highlighting how these UNDP and government funded projects are complimenting the government and contributing to ZIMASSET, as well as to inform the national budget.

Challenges faced in Binga Rural District Council as Highlighted by Binga Assistant DA:

Binga has connectivity challenges ranging from poor road networks to poor telecommunication networks. For example, the Njere road in the region is so poor that it affects the selling of fish from where it is caught to where it is sold.

Due to bad roads, fisherman are unable to access markets. Consequently, fishing groups sell their catch at very low prices to middle men before their catch spoils.

There is also inadequate access to media information in the region such as newspapers. Furthermore, a shortage of teachers in the region due to the recent development requiring all teachers to be qualified exacerbates the low levels of education in the region.

It was noted that to date, Binga is still waiting for the border post to be opened with Zambia. This development has potential to increase traffic in the Binga Rural District Council, accessibility issues and economic activity.

DAY 4 -24 AUGUST 2017 GWANDA

Activity 1: Courtesy call with DA Gwanda Rural District Council Location: PA's Office, Gwanda with Mrs Ncube 0845am-0905am

The meeting, as per standard practice, kicked off with introductions of the delegation, as well as the reason for the monitoring visit. The DA highlighted the Mthandazo group and explained the potential that the project has to improve job promotion. She welcomed continued support by the government and partners going towards the project.

Under the IPRSP there is a project on road rehabilitation program, and MoFED explained that there is need to visit two of the roads in the district that are being highlighted under this initiative. An opportunity was also presented for the PA and the projects to be able to provide feedback and challenges that are being faced by the Projects.

The PA highlighted issues that were caused by Cyclone Dineo. The cyclone affected roads and dams which were swept away. Some school infrastructure was also disturbed, and this is affecting the levels of education in the areas. She appealed for more financial assistance in this area. Drought relief is needed in the region, as the PA explained. The need is rampant, and limited funds are a hindrance at the moment. She explained that Food for work programs are also needed, and may be a better alternative to handouts. Income generating programs were also welcomed as they have the potential to improve livelihoods in the region.

Activity 2: Meeting with DA Gwanda Rural District Council Location: RDC's Office, Gwanda Time: 940am - 12pm

The meeting provided background information on Gwanda district. A comprehensive presentation was made on the support UNDP is providing to the Local Authorities in the district, an update was also provided on the progress made under this initiative. Of particular interest was the manner in which the Local Authorities are now more aware of the sources of revenue in the districts and their intentions to use them more effectively and also the LED initiatives that are undertaking for the success of the district.

Activity 3: Project Site Visit -Mthandazo Women Mining Service Centre Location: Gwanda Mthandazo Women Mining Service Centre 12:12pm – 14:15pm

The meeting, as per usual, opened with introductions and the purpose of visit i.e. to look at what is being done, what are the issues that are being faced, and areas where the government and UNDP can

improve and assist the mining team. Women's empowerment is a major achievement that Gwanda district has achieved with the women's mining group.

Provincial Development Officer for Ministry of Women's Affairs

Mthandazo women's mining centre is part of one of 5 mining districts, Gwanda, Umzingwane, Nsiza, Matopo and Ngwane. In 2013 UNDP provided training on mining to a group of women. In 2014 there was M&E implemented by UNDP to assess progress in the region. After the evaluation, there was recommendation that a there was need for a one stop mining service centre for the women. RBZ led the discussion for the set-up of the structures for the women, I.e. Toilets, fencing, office.

The groups of women formed a 32 member group and they set up their internal structures where they created their constitution. The school of mines in Gwanda trained the women in basic mining skills such as drilling and blasting, finance management, extraction of gold, mining law, basic safety and environment as well as gender. With this knowledge, the mining service centre is flourishing and the physical structures are still in place.

Remarks from Chairperson of Mtandazo Women Miners Association

To date the center has mined 1kg of gold since inception. The various areas of training that the women have received from various development partners as highlighted above, has greatly improved the women's understanding of the mining business which sets them apart from informal miners.

ZINWA explained the extreme weather events between 2015 and 2016 where there were droughts and floods. When there is a water crisis, ZINWA protocol says to provide water first to primary users and then to secondary users. This seriously affected the women's miners as they are secondary users, and they faced some water shortages at the site. The women's mining group consists of 27 members. 70-75% of gold is recovered through cyanidation, a process which comes after milling.

One respondent Nisimati commented that she is now able to take care of her family with the money that she is making from the project. They have also managed to employ men to take care if the heavy lifting in the mine. She is building her house in the district and has started keeping poultry and cattle at home from the money she has made from, the mine. She says that it is hard work but it is worth it.

Activity 4: IPRSP Site visit to the road With regards to road rehabilitation, the construction of the bridge connecting Gwanda rural and the town centre was applauded. MoFED acknowledged GoZ for allocating $1.4 million to DDF for the rehabilitation of roads in district councils However, the challenge that remains is DDF’s incapacity to spend the funds due to lack of earth moving equipment. It was discussed therefore that there is need for GoZ to consider prioritizing the relevant authorities who are responsible for the road rehabilitation, as well capacitating DDF with equipment to undertake road rehabilitation of the 2546km remaining in Gwanda.

Recommendations and lessons learned from the joint monitoring visits

On the last day of the monitoring visits, the delegation reassembled for a debriefing session to discuss and consolidate the week’s findings. This section provides an account of the topics that were raised, lessons learned, challenges and suggestions for areas of improvement. Representation in the debriefing session was from both GoZ and UNDP.

1. An area of improvement, according to MOFED is to improve on the documentation of projects prior to visiting sites on the part of GoZ. This was agreed that the provision of briefing notes for both UNDP and GoZ funded projects would provide relevant contextual information for delegates that will undertake the monitoring and evaluation. Additionally, it was noted that in future, it imperative to notify relevant officials and project staff on the ground of the monitoring visit in advance so that they are both aware and prepared.

2. It was recommended that the itinerary and programme for future monitoring visits be revised to allow more time to assess projects and interact with beneficiaries extensively.

3. MoFED encouraged relevant line ministries to keep up to date with the financial records of all projects for quality assurance. As an example, reservations were made about the Gokwe SACCO visit where the delegation was not privy to information supporting the financial claims made by participants concerning the hardware store. The Ministry of SMEs suggested that in future all SACCOs provide the previous year's audit report, as it is a requirement for all SACCOs to perform yearly audits. Such documentation ensures that the visiting delegation is prepared to ask the right questions ahead of time.

4. MoFED commended UNDP’s work on the projects visited, and encouraged UNDP to continue to assist SACCOs with trainings on issues of sustainability, governance, and rotations of leadership within the group wherever possible.

5. A comment from UNDP raised the concern that there is a lack of coordination of the aid that is received from partners. This helps with improving accountability as well as accounting for what is injected into the project. Additionally, for analysis purposes, monitoring and evaluation can assess the progression of the project against funds that come in. Aid Coordination will assist with the targeting depending on need, as opposed to donors dictating the areas that they will be funding. Local authorities need to be empowered, first to know the areas of need, and second, with the ability to dictate to donors and NGOs on the areas that need funding.

6. There is need for the harmonization between development partners so that they work together complimenting each other in areas such as Gokwe. An example was made of possibly partnering with an organization such as SNV which does a lot of work on the goat value chain.

7. It was recommended that it would be important for goat farmers in Lupane to explore making goat feed locally, as opposed to buying goat feed as is the current practice. This is important for improving profit margins.

8. A recommendation from UNDP was made that moving forward, there may be need to discuss with UNDP Programme Assistants to arrange making direct payments as opposed to advance payments to service providers. This can contribute to alleviating the cash crisis.

9. IRBM: it was agreed that all the respondents that presented on IRBM stressed that the IRBM training they received was too short. There is need for the capacity building and skills training to be extended.

10. It was agreed that the Lupane SACCO achieved its goal of poverty reduction and diversification of people's livelihoods. This was seen by the number of women that have ventured into other money making areas such as butchery and catering

11. MOFED highlighted the need for the government to understand the financial side of the projects, and whether or not the proper procedures were undertaken by the development partners. She also highlighted the need for sustainability once the donors pull out of projects, and the monitoring visit provides an opportunity to assess that.