The Focolare Movement’s Emergency Coordination Team’s interventions in support of the Fazenda da Esperança continue to accompany the local people since the devastating floods of 2019.
In recent months 60 families have received assistance with land cultivation by facilitating the use of a tractor on a temporary basis and distributing seeds and fertilisers. Agricultural production has improved both in quantity and quality thanks to the aid provided.
The mill installed in the ’25 de Setembro’ neighbourhood, a resettlement area for victims of Cyclone Idai, is now in full swing and at the service of more than 200 families who no longer have to travel long distances to produce their own flour which is the main food source for these communities.
The bakery is also fully operational and produces bread for the nursery school, the boarding school, the men’s and women’s fazenda and the neighbouring community.
The bakery’s products now reach some 600 people and provide a source of income for the women’s fazenda.
The poultry farm has recently started operating and is estimated to meet the needs of 10-15 families every month. Production has slowed down pending purchase of a solar-powered incubator and batteries.
All these activities have had a significant effect on the daily lives of local families who are now recovering from severe damage caused by the floods with their own strength.
“I thank the project because it has enabled the women’s fazenda to be self-sufficient and meet the house’s basic needs. The bakery’s and poultry farm’s activities are important not only for generating income to maintain the fazenda and help the local community but will also provide an opportunity for the fazenda’s young guests to get professional training in these areas which they can then use once they are reintegrated into society.” Maria Patreque Naite
“I am really grateful for the help I’m receiving from the Fazenda da Esperança. I have managed to rebuild my house, and they have helped me with the use of a tractor which means I can now farm to support my family.” Laurinda Filipe
