Work-Sharing Programmes and Youth Unemployment in Harare Informal Settlements: A Four-Year Analysis

The Harare Informal Settlements in Zimbabwe face high youth unemployment rates, with many young people engaging in informal work. A mixed-method approach including surveys, interviews, and statistical analysis was employed to assess programme impact on participants' employment status. The analysis revealed that 45% of participants found formal employment through the work-sharing programmes compared to 15% before participation. Work-sharing programmes have shown promising results in increasing youth employment opportunities, though further research is needed to refine programme design and implementation. Policy makers should consider scaling up successful components of these programmes while addressing structural barriers such as access to finance and skills training.