Zimbabwe (MNN) ― Zimbabwe is facing the worst humanitarian crisis since independence. Nothing much has changed for the rural poor.
Despite a coalition government, little headway is being made because of years of political upheaval and hyperinflation.
The country's economy is in shreds, and the average person cannot afford to buy the goods that now stock store shelves. In fact, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) estimates that half the population of 12 million people will be reliant on food aid.
Global Aid Network, or GaiN USA is responding to the physical and spiritual needs of the Tonga. Together with partner, Life Ministry, the team worked in the areas hardest hit by the cholera epidemic, including Harare, Mafbingo and Mutare.
GAiN's Crystal Lentz says, "We were going in and doing the water and sanitation and hygiene training, putting in the water filters, helping out at various schools. We have brought in over six and a half million meals this year alone."
Lentz says their partners have Christ's heart for these people. "The humanitarian aid serves [as] such a platform. When you're feeding somebody, they're open and they're interested in what you have to say."
"Strategically, they have a master plan of how they want to use the aid in sharing the Gospel", and it's effective. "We ministered to approximately three thousand children. During The JESUS Film showing there was about seven thousand total, and about 530 made decisions for Christ."
Pray for the team. Lentz asked one of the Life Ministry leaders what his challenges were. "His greatest struggle was to have people who are willing to stay in country and continue then to produce godly leadership."
Life Ministry has developed a prayer movement in collaboration with local churches; training in evangelism and discipleship; and church planting as a part of a holistic approach to ministry there.
Another team is forming for a trip in February, July and December in 2010. Click here for details.
