Chronicle EditorPatrick Chitumba, [email protected]
AIR Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) officers stationed at Josiah Tungamirai Airforce Base in Gweru last week held a free medical outreach programme in the city as part of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Community Assistance Week.
The initiative provided medical services to the elderly at Batanai Old People’s Home in Senga and patients at the Queen of Peace Rehabilitation Centre.
In addition to healthcare services, AFZ personnel distributed groceries to the homes.
Mr Eventhough Zendera, a psychologist at Queen of Peace Rehabilitation Centre, was grateful for the AFZ’s assistance, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the El-Nino-induced drought.
“As an institution, we have not been spared by the drought. The groceries will greatly assist with the daily needs of our patients, who require a balanced diet as they recover,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of the health and moral support provided by the air force.
Mrs Mildret Mujuru, a caregiver at Batanai Old People’s Home, also praised the initiative, citing that the free medical care and grocery donations came at a crucial time.
“We are very thankful to our military personnel for spending time with us, and this means a lot. We rely on handouts, so everything brought here is of great value,” she said.
Air Commodore Mubaira Dliwayo, Commander of Josiah Tungamirai Airbase, expressed the AFZ’s commitment to uplifting society through various community projects.
“This week serves as a reminder that our duty extends beyond the battlefield; it encompasses acts of kindness and generosity towards those who might be less fortunate.
“This week offers us an opportunity to engage with various community initiatives aimed at improving lives across Zimbabwe, whether through food drives, educational programmes, or building health services — each contribution counts,” he said.
The ZDF Community Assistance Week precedes the Defence Forces Day commemorations, a day dedicated to celebrating the men and women in the military who are committed to protecting the country’s territorial integrity.
Online Reporter