“We are thrilled to receive this important prize. It serves as great encouragement for our staff to continue on with their work to improve the situation for communities affected by displacement in Zimbabwe”, says NRC Country Director Lynn Walker.
The Ockenden International Prize goes to “projects, programmes or activities that help refugees and displaced people with pioneering approaches proven to be highly effective in promoting self-reliance for displaced communities.”
NRC has been named the winner for its work with internally displaced persons and their host communities in eastern Zimbabwe. NRC has carried out projects that work to bring internally displaced people and host communities in Zimbabwe together in efforts to improve access to education, water and sanitation, shelter as well as food security and livelihoods. NRC's community based approach has worked to secure with participation of all groups.
The project’s goal of self-reliance, which is an important factor in determining the winner of the Ockenden International Prize, has been strong throughout the project.
Through the projects over 10,000 persons in displacement affected communities have received support for sustainable livelihoods and food security, access to WASH and education services. 1,600 vulnerable IDP households have increased their livelihood options. Finally, over 1,000 young people have enrolled in vocational skills training and over 600 graduated to establish their own income generating activities or into formal employment.
As the winner of the International Ockenden Prize, NRC Zimbabwe will receive $75,000.
