Bigger, better Victoria Falls Mayor’s Cheer Fund launched: expanded to cater for school fees and medical expenses for vulnerable groups

Leonard Ncube, [email protected]
THE Victoria Falls City Council on Friday launched the 2024 Mayor’s Cheer Fund whose target is to raise US$20 000 for charity.
The launch was preceded by a walkathon where residents and the corporate world as well as civic society organisations joined efforts not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the integration of community work and environmental cleanliness.
The walkathon started from the 52.5km peg between Matetsi and Lubangwe on the Victoria Falls-Hwange road where scores of people braved wildlife presence to walk to the city in solidarity with charity and conservation.

Some started from the 20km peg at the Victoria Falls Airport while others started the walk from the 10km as the occasion received resounding response.
Victoria Falls is the country’s prime tourism destination and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to one of the world’s natural wonders, and as such, it is vital to maintain the environment in its pristine state.

Some children that participated at the Mayor’s Cheer Fund launch

In line with this environmental call and response to the National Clean-Up initiative launched by President Mnangagwa in 2018, the city council introduced a 50km walkathon.
The Second Republic has instilled a culture of cleaning the environment and workplaces daily, with National Clean-Up held every first Friday of the month. However, roadsides along the country’s major highways remain a cause for concern, as litterbugs—mostly travellers and motorists—throw rubbish from their vehicles.
While urban areas have generally received significant attention in terms of cleaning, the country’s roads are an eyesore, compounded by the vandalism of rubbish bins at lay-bys.
Additionally, motorists and public transporters continue to ignore regulations requiring them to have bins in their cars.

Ward 2 Cllr Tafadzva Mutowa hands over a medal to some of the council workers that walked 52km during the walkathon

Victoria Falls City has stood out as arguably the cleanest urban area, thanks to the coordination of various stakeholders who formed the Pristine Victoria Falls Society. This taskforce, consisting of the local authority, Environmental Management Agency, police, and other stakeholders, enforces compliance with by-laws.
While some were partaking in the walk, companies adopted sections of the road where they picked litter.
Corporates that participated in the walkathon and launch include Inter Africa Bus Company which donated a bus to the Victoria Falls City Council to carry people to the starting point 52.5km away.
Mahelane Tours also carried people to the 20km peg.
Zimparks rangers and police in Victoria Falls provided security and also escorted the walkers.
Elephant Hills, Wild Horizons, Mbano Manor Hotel, Cimas, Calm Medical participated in the march while Youth Invest, Greenline Africa and the Victoria Falls Anti Poaching Unit, Dibhamombe picked litter with the Environmental Management Agency and council coordinating.
Paddys Veges, Mr Veggie, Rainbow Hotel, Zambezi Elite and others donated provisions including refreshments and fruits for participants, while other corporates donated towards the evening event.
Through Pristine Victoria Falls Society, businesses that include Zuva Garage, Glow Garage, African Eagle, Stanley and Livingstone Hotel, Khanondo Safaris, iRock Lodge, Panashe Lodge, Palm Hospitality Group, Bayethe Collection, Unica, Afro Edge Zimbabwe, Environmental Promoters each cleaned section of the road between the city centre and Ndlovu turn off.
Lupunyu community and Golden Lions Football Club also took part.
Last year the Cheer Fund provided food hampers to 100 families.
This year, plans are in place to expand the support, helping more vulnerable learners with school fees and examination registration costs, as well as assisting community members with urgent medical expenses.
Acting Mayor Councillor Priscilla Mhlanga said the turnout was a testament to the community’s spirit and dedication to helping those in need.
“Your dedication and commitment to this cause are commendable, and your efforts have already made a positive impact on the community. Your hard work ensures that the beauty of the community is maintained for everyone to enjoy as a tourism destination of choice.
“Today, as the launch of this year’s Cheer Fund takes place, an ambitious goal of raising US$20 000 is being announced. With everyone’s help, this target can be achieved, extending support to even more individuals and families in need,”
she said.
Cllr Mhlanga said the funds will focus on several key areas in the community including youth needs, especially those preparing for O-Level and A-Level examinations, support for the elderly orphans and members of the albinism community.
“Businesses, organisations and individuals I urge you to consider donating to this important cause. Contributions, whether large or small, will make a significant impact on the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for your past generosity and ongoing support. The account for donations is now open, and contributions are encouraged throughout the year. Together, a stronger, more compassionate community can be created,” added Cllr Mhlanga.
Acting Town Clerk Ms Kholwani Mnagena who is the Chamber Secretary said the collective support of the needy will help improve the community in lien with Vision 2030.
“The purpose of the walk was not only to clean the environment in lien the President’s call but also to raise funds for the less privileged in the society. This event is a celebration of our collective efforts to make a difference in the lives of those that are less fortunate,” she said.
-@ncubeleon