Transition Programming for Sustainable Livelihoods Beyond Institutional Care in Zimbabwe: Service Providers’ Perspectives

Pamhidzayi Berejena Mhongera - Children & Society

Abstract

This article explores the perspectives and programme needs of transition service providers (institutions and the government) in preparing and supporting adolescent girls leaving institutional care in Harare, Zimbabwe. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with institutional staff from Institution A (government-owned) and Institution B (privately owned) and social services officers from the Department of Child Welfare and Probation Services. Service providers define successful transition programming as the provision of comprehensive services and support to facilitate the achievement of sustainable livelihoods beyond care and recommend the development of well-resourced transition models for adolescent girls leaving institutional care.