So many attempts have been made to try and alleviate poverty especially in
developing countries. However despite all these attempts poverty is deepening
especially in rural areas. The study sought to evaluate the impact of the main
interventions implemented by
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) through the Protecting Vulnerable Livelihoods
Programme (PVLP) on beneficiaries. The research was undertaken in Murehwa
district ward 28. According to CRS the total beneficiaries were 900 a sample of 90
representing 10% was randomly selected, In collecting the required information both
quantitative and qualitative methodologies were adopted. The programmes main
interventions included Nutritional Gardens, Conservation Farming, Small Livestock
Support, Input Farming and Water and Sanitation. The major livelihood activity in
ward 28 Murewa District is agriculture, low and erratic rainfall is the biggest
challenge faced by the community. The researcher recommends that irrigation needs
to be introduced in order to unlock development. Another facilitating factor is the
existence of community–based structures to monitor and manage interventions as
well as the availability of technical support from Department of Veterinary Services,
AREX and Ministry of Health. The major challenge faced by most beneficiaries is
hunger and disease. This situation is aggravated by input shortages, shortage of
professionals, depleting water tables, transport shortages and threats from pests and
diseases