Bad governance and more recently an unstable political settlement, lies at the heart of Zimbabwe's problems. Coupled with more than a decade of economic collapse, Zimbabwean people continue to face very real challenges today. Christian Aid started working in Zimbabwe in 1980, and most of our work is concentrated in the drought-prone Matabeleland South region. We also work with partners and networks who cover the entire country. One of our key strengths is the strong relationships we have with our church partners who focus on a range of issues from food security and nutrition, to HIV, health and gender equality. The importance of good governance lies at the centre of our programme with partners working to build the capacity of poor communities to demand good and accountable leadership, including access to essential services. These partners are also striving to do their part in building a peaceful Zimbabwe and to reconcile communities scarred by previous politically motivated conflict..