No, not during my visits – it actually feels very safe and normal there. That said, we are monitoring the political situation closely through our local contacts. Local people we spoke to cautioned against talking about politics in public places – you never know who is listening. Recently though, a public consultation on constitutional reform was taking place – I don’t think that would have happened a few years ago.

I had a typical African welcome – they were truly delighted I was there and treated me like a special guest! On one occasion, I gave a short talk in a church service in Mutare: when I said we were planning to bring teams of volunteers from the UK, people started clapping! I think people feel neglected by the outside world, so were very appreciative of the support we could give them. I’m confident our teams will receive a very warm welcome in Mutare.

Sadly yes. About 15% of the adult population is HIV positive, though recent statistics show the problem is declining. A concern though, is that only half of those needing anti-retroviral drugs can get them, as government funding is limited. There are over a million children who have lost one or both parents as a result of AIDS. We will be working closely with Windows of Hope, caring for those who are sick, helping to pay school fees for orphans and distributing food where there are shortages.

I think simply being there will be a great encouragement to many people, showing them they have not been forgotten. We will touch the lives of many people during our time there – for example visiting the sick, or taking disadvantaged children on a rare outing. Children learn better when they have good facilities, and the small Community Centres we hope to build will provide a good learning environment that can be used in all weathers.

We expect to stay in a local guesthouse in Mutare, which provides simple but comfortable accommodation. A typical local meal would be rice, chicken and vegetables, always served with ‘sadza’ - the stodgy maize meal which is eaten across Africa. But there is a Wimpy and Nandos in Mutare as well! Fortunately, there is now plenty of food in the local supermarkets, much of it imported from neighbouring South Africa.

We’ve heard a lot of negative things about Zimbabwe in the UK in recent years, and there is no doubt there is a great need there. Now the political tensions have eased, the time seems right to reach out with that hand of friendship. Like all Mission Direct trips, although we go to construct buildings, it’s about relationships – whether it’s providing an encouraging word to someone in need or having fun with children. The trip would appeal to those who love working with children, who want to see for themselves what is happening in Zimbabwe or those who are keen to encourage people who have been through very difficult times in recent years.