Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma,Zimpapers Reporter
DEPUTY Minister for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, who also serves as the Gwanda South Constituency legislator, continues to make a meaningful impact in improving the lives of people living with disabilities in rural areas.
Since 2019, Dr Marupi, working closely with well-wishers, has distributed over 60 wheelchairs, 120 pairs of crutches, commode chairs, and walkers across the constituency. Recognising the harsh summer weather conditions in Gwanda, he has also sourced skin lotion specifically for people with albinism, providing much-needed relief.
In addition to mobility aids, the Deputy Minister supports vulnerable children by paying school fees, including for a blind boy who recently completed his Form 4 studies.
Last Saturday, Dr Marupi personally donated wheelchairs to beneficiaries such as Dominic Ndlovu from Mbamba village and Johannes Ndlovu from Bhalula village.
“These donations aim to improve the plight of people living with disabilities in rural areas,” said Dr Marupi. “It feels great to uplift the lives of our people. Dominic, one of the beneficiaries, had been without a wheelchair for over 20 years, and seeing his smile was truly heartwarming. We also pray for more men and women to join us in sourcing wheelchairs for all those in need across Gwanda South Constituency.”
Dr Marupi also visited Onnalina Nyathi, a student whose school fees he has been sponsoring since 2019. Onnalina completed three subjects at Mtshabezi High School and will now continue his studies at Kafusi Secondary School.
The Deputy Minister thanked the school heads of Mtshabezi High and Kafusi Secondary for their support.
“I urge everyone to continue supporting these efforts so we can improve the lives of others,” Dr. Marupi added.
Reflecting on his inspiration for the initiative, Dr Marupi shared, “I was deeply moved when I saw a woman carrying her 14-year-old child on her back for 15 kilometers to reach a clinic. That sight motivated me to source wheelchairs and crutches. I am grateful for the support from my family, friends, and well-wishers, including Keitumetsi Noko,
Mrs Mantsibeng Nyathi, Dudu Tapela, Mr. Patrick Dube of Green Horse, Mrs Cecilia Bhebhe Dubiwa, and Butho Bee Dee Dube.”
He further expressed concern over the social stigma faced by disabled individuals: “It saddens me to see people ignoring or hiding the disabled. They are like us, and we should be thankful that we can walk. During the recent donations, I handed over wheelchairs to about 10 people across the 11 wards of Gwanda South, ensuring an equal distribution.”
