How we started, what we believe, and why.
When we first envisioned Habitat For Recovery, we were driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals battling addiction. We set out to answer core questions:
Could we create recovery hubs that provide not just treatment but a holistic approach to rebuilding lives? Could we integrate vocational training into recovery to address the economic barriers that often lead to relapse? Would communities embrace a new model focused on dignity and empowerment?
The answer to all of those questions—and more—was an overwhelming, YES.
There was—and still is—a desperate need for compassionate, accessible, and transformative recovery solutions across Africa.
There was—and still is—a heartbreaking cycle of stigma, unemployment, and untreated addiction that keeps individuals and communities trapped.
We are on a mission to change that.
Habitat For Recovery’s roots lie in JEKA, a Davis Projects For Peace initiative born out of the vision to tackle substance abuse and unemployment among Zimbabwe’s youth. JEKA, derived from the Shona phrase “ramangwana rakajeka” (a brighter future), sought to provide young people with skills in technology and entrepreneurship while educating communities on the dangers of addiction.
Through partnerships with impactful organizations like Pora Health, JEKA blended awareness campaigns, technology bootcamps, and mentorship to empower individuals and address the root causes of addiction. While JEKA achieved remarkable success in raising awareness and providing training, it became clear that more comprehensive support was needed to create lasting change. This realization became the foundation for Habitat For Recovery.
Initially, our approach focused on short-term support and skill-building programs for individuals in recovery. These programs emphasized basic counseling services and vocational training workshops, aiming to help participants find immediate employment opportunities. While this approach provided some benefits, it lacked the depth and sustainability needed to create long-term change.
Participants often encountered barriers such as persistent stigma, limited access to stable employment, and a lack of ongoing support for relapse prevention. The programs were primarily standalone initiatives, which meant participants weren’t receiving integrated care that addressed the full scope of their needs, including medical and mental health support.
We realized that this approach wasn’t enough to break the cycles of addiction and poverty. To make a meaningful impact, we needed a model that combined comprehensive recovery services with sustainable pathways to empowerment. This led to the redesign of our model, focusing on holistic recovery and long-term success.
Our reimagined approach is built on a holistic recovery framework that addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction. At its core, this model provides individuals with the tools and support needed to heal and thrive. Recovery begins with medical detoxification, offering safe, professional care to help individuals navigate the critical first stages of their journey.
To address the emotional and psychological roots of addiction, we provide trauma-informed mental health support, including individual counseling and group therapy sessions. Recognizing the role of unemployment and economic insecurity in perpetuating addiction, we integrate vocational training into our model, equipping participants with practical skills in fields such as agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship to foster independence and sustainable livelihoods.
Finally, our model emphasizes community reintegration, offering resources for employment, mentorship, and relapse prevention to ensure long-term success. This comprehensive approach is designed to restore dignity, rebuild lives, and empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
While our vision is bold, our commitment is grounded in action. We have developed a blueprint for our first recovery hub and are actively raising funds to begin construction by early 2026. This hub will serve as a safe, inclusive space where individuals can access medical care, mental health services, vocational training, and community support under one roof.
To overcome infrastructure challenges, the hub will utilize innovative solutions, including repurposed shipping containers and solar energy. This model not only addresses logistical barriers but provides a scalable, sustainable framework for future recovery centers across Africa. Once complete, our hub will be a beacon of transformation, offering hope and opportunity to those who need it most.
