Zimbabwe Youth Program Collaborative Action Network for the Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust (YETT)

The AEDS team led by Prof Mugano undertook this assignment and produced report detailing a comprehensive sustainability strategy for the Local Works Zimbabwe Collaborative Action Network (LWCAN) II, a project implemented by the Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust (YETT) with support from USAID. The primary objective of the work was to design a roadmap that ensures the network can continue supporting youth entrepreneurship beyond the lifespan of donor funding. The assignment focused on the operationalization of key support structures established by the program, specifically the Youth Advisory Board (YAB), the Cross Sectoral Advisory Committee (CAC), and Thematic Working Groups (TWGs), which were designed to help young entrepreneurs start and grow their enterprises.

A significant portion of the work involved an Ecosystem Mapping and Capacity Assessment to understand the operating environment for young entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe. The findings revealed a “moderate” organizational capacity within the network but identified critical gaps in financial and governance sustainability. The assessment highlighted systemic challenges in the broader ecosystem, including a theoretical education system disconnected from industry needs, a lack of financial literacy and collateral among youth, and a cultural perception of entrepreneurship as a “last resort.” Furthermore, the consultants noted that the network lacked financial independence, was operating without member contributions and relied entirely on external support.

To address these vulnerabilities, the AEDS consulting team proposed a Sustainability Plan anchored on financial diversification, institutional strengthening, and policy advocacy. It recommended specific revenue-generation models such as crowdfunding, private sector partnerships, and income-generating activities to replace donor reliance. Additionally, the report outlined strategic recommendations for operational improvement, including the decentralization of LWCAN activities to local communities, the development of clear Terms of Reference (ToRs) for stakeholders, and the creation of incentive models to maintain active participation from youth and partners.