History of LDS

The Lutheran Development Services (LDS) is the diaconal arm of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ) and has been operating in Zimbabwe since 1994 by taking over from the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) which had been in the country since 1980. In 2003, LDS was officially registered with the Government of Zimbabwe as a Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO), strengthening its capacity to deliver essential services. LDS is a proud member of the Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance, which unites over 130 organizations to create sustainable positive change for marginalized and vulnerable populations.

LDS boasts 30 years of experience in both development and emergency response. Throughout this time, the organization has successfully integrated emergency relief efforts with sustainable development initiatives. Over the years, the focus areas of LDS have expanded to include:

  1. Improving general water supplies and access to potable water along with increasing the level of food security of rural communities;
  2. Facilitating the reduction of HIV infections among communities and giving support to affected community members;
  3. Supporting marginalized and needy communities, who are normally the poor and unemployed, with the construction and rehabilitation of identified infrastructure; and
  4. Minimising the effects of disaster, loss of life and human suffering by providing in-kind support and capacity enhancement during and following crisis periods.

By 2008, LDS effectively addressed socio-economic and political challenges in Zimbabwe through collaboration with government and humanitarian agencies.

2013–2015: Integrated Rural Development

This critical period saw a shift towards more structured approaches aimed at alleviating poverty and bolstering community resilience, particularly in drought-prone areas. The focus was on reducing poverty and enhancing resilience through targeted interventions and working directly with vulnerable communities, including widows, orphans, and disabled persons.

2013–2018: Strategic Strengthening

The LDS strategic plan during 2013–2018 emphasized making the organization robust and efficient. Key objectives included:

  • Strategic Networks: Expanding memberships and alliances to leverage resources and share best practices.
  • Good Governance: Upholding high standards of governance and management to maintain stakeholder trust.
  • Resource Mobilization: Developing an integrated approach to address critical areas such as water, sanitation, food security, and climate change.

2025–2030: Sustainable Transformation

Looking to the future, LDS has established a new strategy for 2025–2030, designed to drive sustainable transformation through four thematic pillars:

  • Sustainable Livelihoods: Enhancing economic well-being and food security through inclusive livelihood opportunities.
  • Climate Resilience: Equipping communities to adapt to climate changes and manage resources sustainably.
  • Justice & Peace: Promoting social cohesion and equitable access to justice, while tackling inequalities like gender-based violence.
  • Humanitarian Action: Strengthening preparedness and response mechanisms to ensure effective humanitarian aid where needed.

As LDS looks forward, it remains committed to its mission of making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people of Zimbabwe, leveraging its rich history to inspire future growth and transformation.