Freunde für Matibi

01/09/2026

JOURNEY TO GREATNESS: A CAMP TO REMEMBER!

Our learners stepped away from the familiar nook and into an unforgettable Psychosocial Support Camp at Mafuramhepo Resort in Masvingo, themed “Journey to Greatness.”
From team-building challenges and mountain climbing to psychosocial support sessions, wildlife adventures, Great Zimbabwe reflections, games, and the vibrant Colour Festival & Run, every experience was designed to build confidence, resilience, self-awareness, teamwork, and healthy relationships. Set against the beautiful surroundings of Lake Kyle—with even a few unexpected hippo sounds at night! the camp became a space for learning, laughter, reflection, connection, and growth. This was more than just a camp. It was a reminder that greatness is a journey—shaped by our challenges, choices, courage, relationships, and the lessons we learn along the way.
From the nook to the campsite.
From challenges to confidence.
From the familiar to the extraordinary.
This was our Journey to Greatness. And what a journey it was!

24/08/2026

Like every cycle, it has become a tradition to give our learners unforgettable memories through life-changing life skills, meaningful experiences, and moments that they will carry with them long after their time at the Nook.

As the 10th Cycle continues its journey, we are excited to host a psychosocial support camp under the theme "Journey Into Greatness"The camp will create a safe and inspiring space for learners to reflect on their journey, discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, and envision the greatness they want to achieve.

Through activities such as team building, a colour run, mountain hiking, creative activities, reflection sessions, and many more, learners will learn, grow, challenge themselves, and most importantly, create memories together.

This camp is not just about the activities—it is about celebrating how far they have come, discovering what lies within them, and taking the next step towards greatness.

Our journey continues.
#𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬

27/07/2026

Exciting News!

We are thrilled to introduce our Mobile Kitchen Caravan, a new initiative under our Business Accelerator Model that marks another exciting step towards the sustainability of The Nook Project. This initiative is more than just a mobile kitchen, it's a platform for impact. It will help us raise funds locally while providing learners who are developing their food preparation skills with valuable hands-on experience, an opportunity to build their confidence, and a chance to earn a living. The Mobile Kitchen Caravan will be serving communities at local markets, community events, and other opportunities, bringing delicious food while creating meaningful opportunities for our young people.This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of FRIENDS FOR MATIBI, whose partnership continues to turn ideas into reality. Your commitment to empowering communities and investing in young people is making a lasting difference.
Together, we're creating opportunities, building skills, and serving our community.

16/07/2026

Gilbert, Simba, and Matibi Nook Learners Build New Livestock Pens

This week, Gilbert, Simba, and the dedicated learners at the Matibi Nook Learning Centre worked tirelessly to construct new livestock pens as part of the centre's practical agricultural training program.

The project provided learners with valuable hands-on experience in construction, teamwork, and livestock management while contributing to the continued development of the centre's farming infrastructure. By participating in real-world projects such as this, learners gain practical skills that prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.

The new livestock pens will enhance the centre's capacity to keep and manage livestock, creating additional opportunities for practical training in animal husbandry and supporting Matibi Nook's vision of becoming a self-sustaining learning hub.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Gilbert, Simba, and every learner who dedicated their time, energy, and commitment to making this project a success. Their hard work is helping to build a stronger future for the entire community.

09/07/2026

Strengthening Educational Support for OVCs

Friends for Matibi took another step towards supporting vulnerable learners through the Educational Support Program by conducting a stationery distribution exercise at ST Ambrose Primary, Ruzambu Primary, and Murawi Primary Schools.
The support followed a baseline survey conducted to identify the needs of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) within the program area. Through this process, 60 learners were identified for school fees support, while 30 learners were selected to receive stationery support across the three schools.
Each stationery package included:
✏️ 20 writing exercise books
🖊️ 5 pens
📏 1 ruler
✏️ 1 pencil
The distribution was facilitated by the Project Lead, Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer, and the newly trained PSS Leaders (community volunteers). This marked an important beginning for the volunteers as they start implementing community-based initiatives and supporting learners within the communities they serve.
All three schools are located within Ward 3, which is Friends for Matibi’s area of operation, allowing the program to directly respond to identified community needs.
While this support has reached selected learners based on identified needs, Friends for Matibi remains committed to expanding its efforts to reach more learners who were not selected and to extend similar support to additional schools within the community.
Together, we continue working towards creating opportunities, strengthening education access, and building brighter futures for children.

09/07/2026

Preliminary Meeting Marks the Start of Matibi Mission Hospital Theatre Renovation Phase 2

Friends for Matibi officially commenced preparations for Phase 2 of the Matibi Mission Hospital Theatre Renovation Project with a preliminary planning meeting held today at Matibi Mission Hospital.

The meeting was attended by Friends for Matibi representatives Gilbert and Genius, together with members of the hospital management team and the Hospital Board. The discussions focused on the implementation of the next phase of the renovation project, with particular emphasis placed on delivering work of the highest quality to ensure the upgraded theatre meets the standards required for safe and efficient surgical care.

Hospital management and Board members highlighted the importance of excellent workmanship throughout the renovation process, noting that the operating theatres are critical to delivering life-saving medical services to thousands of people across Mwenezi District and surrounding communities.

Following the meeting, the Friends for Matibi team joined hospital representatives on a comprehensive tour of the hospital. During the walkthrough, the team inspected the operating theatre and related facilities, where all planned modifications and technical requirements were discussed in detail. This collaborative assessment will help ensure that the renovation is carried out in line with the hospital's operational needs while maintaining high clinical standards.

Phase 2 of the renovation project builds on the successful completion of the initial phase and represents another significant milestone in improving healthcare infrastructure at Matibi Mission Hospital. Once completed, the renovated theatre will provide a safer, more functional environment for surgical procedures, ultimately improving patient care and health outcomes for the surrounding rural communities.

This important project is being funded through the generous support of Friends for Matibi Association and the Beit Trust. Their investment demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening healthcare services and ensuring that rural communities have access to quality medical facilities.

Friends for Matibi extends its sincere appreciation to the hospital management, Board members, and staff for their cooperation and looks forward to working closely with all stakeholders to successfully deliver this transformative project.

02/07/2026

Strengthening Community Support Through Youth Leadership & Psychosocial Support Training
Over the past five days, the Psychosocial Support (PSS) Program successfully conducted a Youth Leadership & PSS Training aimed at equipping community volunteers with the knowledge, skills, and practical approaches needed to support young people and communities.
The training focused on building a strong foundation for the implementation of the PSS program, which will focus on three key areas: Educational Support, Health Support, and Life Skills Training Camps. Through interactive sessions, group discussions, practical activities, and experiential learning, participants were empowered to become effective facilitators and community change agents.
Key topics covered included:
✅ Understanding Psychosocial Support (PSS) and its role in communities
✅ Experiential Learning Principles for impactful engagement
✅ Creative Facilitation Techniques to encourage participation and learning
✅ Community Action Planning for sustainable interventions
✅ Educational Support Approaches to strengthen learner development
✅ Child Protection & Safeguarding practices
✅ Conflict Management and peaceful resolution strategies
The training created a platform for participants to share experiences, develop innovative solutions, and strengthen their ability to provide safe, supportive, and empowering spaces for children, youths, and communities.
As we move forward, these trained youth leaders and volunteers will play a vital role in bringing positive change through educational support activities, health awareness initiatives, and life skills development programs.
Together, we continue building stronger communities by empowering minds, nurturing potential, and creating opportunities for growth.

26/06/2026

From Learner to Entrepreneur! 🔨✨

Prince was a learner in the 9th Nook Cycle at the Matibi Nook Hub, where he developed practical metal fabrication skills. Today, we are proud to see him applying those skills to build a thriving business that serves his local community.

Today, we witnessed the quality of his craftsmanship firsthand as he designed, fabricated, and installed a strong, beautiful gate for a community member in Matibi.

Prince's journey is a powerful reminder that when young people are equipped with practical, in-demand skills, they don't just create opportunities for themselves—they become problem-solvers, job creators, and contributors to their communities.

We celebrate Prince's success and look forward to seeing his business continue to grow. Congratulations, Prince! Your hard work and determination are inspiring the next generation of makers and entrepreneurs.

24/06/2026

17/06/2026

Young Women at work!