Our partner organization Centro Aberto in Chimoio, Mozambique, is a small grassroots organization that can make a big difference. Through their valuable work and a state-recognised degree, up to 60 young people from the "25 de Junho" district, which is characterised by poverty and alcohol, have the chance to build a life of their own.
Catherine Hollinger, Project Coordinator Mozambique
In the suburban settlement "25 de Junho" of Chimoio, Mozambique, the Centro Aberto de Jesus runs a youth club. This district is strongly marked by countless illegal distilleries: The surrounding area is dreary and strongly marked by alcohol. It is easily accessible for everyone and for many people it is the only source of income. This settlement resembles a dead end. If the children and young people did not have the youth club of the Centro Aberto de Jesus, they would have nothing. Worse still, they would only have the alcohol.
A perspective instead of problems with drugs
A total of 32 young people attend the club. Of these, 15 are active in the associated carpentry workshop and carry out commissioned work. For example, doors and chairs are made for customers. The youth group is very mixed and all children and young people come from different backgrounds. But the trainer of the youth club 25 de Junho tells us that all the young people here have one thing in common: They have no problems with the police or drugs. The activities in the youth club have an enormously positive influence on their lives - they suddenly get a perspective.
Perspectives for 60 young people
And the perspectives they receive through the Centro Aberto de Jesus are truly remarkable. The Centro Aberto de Jesus is very well networked in Chimoio. Above all, the long-term cooperation with the national vocational training institute INEPF is considered an outstanding model of success: Up to 60 young people a year can complete training at the institute at reduced rates.
Second chance for a successful future
Furthermore, a school leaving certificate is not absolutely necessary. This relaxation is a real opportunity for the future for young people who, as orphans, have to look after their younger siblings at an early age and whose school career is no longer a priority. Otherwise, only a few, often privileged young people will have the opportunity to learn a profession or complete a course of study. Our partner organisation also focuses on long-term support and continues to accompany the young people after their training, for example, in their new jobs.
Mozambique: Children and young people affected by HIV/AIDS
Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world. More than half of the population lives on less than one dollar a day. In addition, the population is severely affected by HIV/AIDS. Today, around 500,000 children and young people are orphans left to fend for themselves. Growing up without parents strengthens their already constant fight against poverty and violence. Chimoio, the capital of the province of Manica, is particularly marked by poverty. Our partner organization Centro Aberto de Jesus offers children and young people a future with its handicraft courses in carpentry and tailoring.
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