Decision to reopen soup kitchen gets thumbs up

Municipal Correspondent
Zimbabweans across the political divide have welcomed Chitungwiza Municipality’s decision to reopen a kitchen run from a local house, with people pledging to assist its operations with financial and material resources.

The local authority reopened the kitchen in Unit A, Chitungwiza, barely a day after it was closed for failing to follow registration procedures leading to a public outcry as it served over 1 600 people.

The closure had caused an outcry even on social media platforms.

On Twitter, Norton legislator Temba Mliswa blasted Chitungwiza Municipality for poorly handling the case.

The Ms Samantha Muzoroki-run kitchen started serving meals on Saturday after meeting council officials the previous day.

Ms Muzokori was permitted to operate from her house as council works on moving her to a more decent place.

She also agreed to have her team screened for Covid-19 and other diseases.

Chitungwiza Residents Trust (Chitrest) director Ms Alice Kuveya hailed council for reopening the kitchen.

“As residents, we are happy for the decision that the council has finally made,” she said.

Mr Patony Ngoni Musendo said this was good news to people who depended on Ms Muzoroki’s initiative.

Chitungwiza Progressive Residents’’ Association secretary-general Mr Gift Kurupati said the woman needs community support.

“Let us put our hands together and donate whatever we have.

“Council’s decision to shut the kitchen was too harsh, considering the number of people who are benefiting from this philanthropist. If they decide to give her a new place, the place must be within Unit A so that we don’t disadvantage the needy who were already benefiting,” he said.

Mr Rowen Meda said, “Lovely news. It’s sad seeing a good deed which most fail to do, come to a halt just like that. I am glad.”

Ms Muzoroki’s partner, Mr Masimba Marangwanda thanked stakeholders for the support rendered.

“Ladies and gentlemen I would like to announce that the Chitungwiza Relief Kitchen is back! Will send details on the new arrangement but thank you all for the support…” reads his Tweet.

In a statement Chitungwiza Municipality acting town clerk Dr Tonderai Kasu said the council’s decision was influenced by people’s pleas to reopen the kitchen.

“As a listening authority, we noted all your concerns and how the issue has generated a lot of interest.

“However, during the meeting Ms Muzoroki was forthcoming on the issue of registering her operations.”