Online Reporter
Senior Reporter
THERE was pomp and fanfare in Bulawayo yesterday as multitudes of children celebrated at a party hosted by First Lady Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa to mark the beginning of the festive season.
The children were drawn from facilities across the country that house orphaned and vulnerable children.
Yesterday, they got an opportunity to enjoy early Christmas gifts that were brought by the First Lady.
The children said they were elated to have been remembered by Mother Zimbabwe, who has played a significant role in their well-being.
“The First Lady is a loving mother. I want to thank her because through her programmes on drug and substance abuse, we are learning a lot as young people,” said one of them.
Many expressed their happiness for being remembered by the First Lady during this festive season.
As a true testament to her motherly nature, she ensured the children were well fed and happy as they enjoyed the gifts she showered on them.
The Christmas party was held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, where Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo represented the First Lady, who could not attend due to other pressing engagements.
The First Lady said Christmas is a time of love, family and togetherness.
“I am truly delighted to be with you here today as we celebrate the joy of Christmas with our beloved children. This is a time of love, family and togetherness, and what better way to mark it than by bringing smiles to the faces of our young ones.
“As mother to the nation, I hold deep passion for the care, protection and empowerment of our children, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds,” she said.
The First Lady said every child, regardless of their circumstances or vulnerability, deserves love, dignity and the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential.
“To our dear children, today is your day. Enjoy the music, the food, the gifts and the joy of the season. Let this day remind you that you are special. Dream big and always remember that your future is bright. Allow me to commend the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and everyone who played a part in organising this important event, for their continued efforts to support children in alternative care.
“I also acknowledge the support from local authorities, private sector partners and caregivers whose compassion makes such initiatives a success,” she said.
As the Government takes its role of taking care of children housed in institutions, the First Lady has played hers well, too, reminding them that they are never alone, but, instead, are part of a big and loving community that cares about their well-being and happiness.
Mother Zimbabwe said the children living in these safe facilities must know that their well-being is always prioritised.
“Today, we are here to celebrate you as well. Christmas is a time for giving, and I have heard that some of you have been working hard on your own special gifts, maybe a drawing, a song or a poem. Whatever it is, I am so excited to see it.
“As you enjoy the festivities, remember that you are loved, valued and appreciated. You are the future leaders and innovators and we believe in you. I want to say thank you to the amazing caregivers, social workers and staff who work tirelessly to make sure these children have a loving home,” she said.
The First Lady said the caregivers are also making a difference in the children’s lives and, as such, she was very grateful for their dedication to ensuring that the vulnerable children were well catered for.
“As a mother to the nation, I hold a deep passion for the care, protection and empowerment of our children, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds. Every child, regardless of their circumstance, deserves love, dignity and the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential,” she said.
The children were kept on their feet as they danced energetically to song after song, enjoying the festivities that were lined up for them.
The First Lady said her philanthropic organisation, Angel of Hope Foundation, is committed to complementing Government efforts by reaching out to children living on the streets, orphans, children with disabilities and many others in need.
“I will continue to advocate for their rights and support inclusive programmes that build their resilience. As we celebrate Christmas, I urge all of us to continue supporting the most vulnerable among us, not just during this season, but every day. I wish you all a blessed Christmas and a prosperous 2026. God bless you.
“God bless our children. God bless Zimbabwe,” she said.
The children who graced the party were from Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa’s Children’s Home, SOS Children’s Home, Queen Elizabeth Children’s Home, Thembiso and Percy Iboston Children’s Home, among many other facilities.
