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Blessings Chidakwa, Senior Reporter
FIRST Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to embrace a culture of giving and compassion, saying acts of selflessness are key to transforming lives and strengthening communities.
In a special message to mark International Women’s Day, which is commemorated today, Dr Mnangagwa said this year’s campaign theme, “Give To Gain”, highlights the importance of service, compassion and unity in building a stronger and more prosperous Zimbabwe.
International Women’s Day is commemorated globally every year on 8 March, to celebrate the achievements of women and promote gender equality, while encouraging greater participation of women in social, economic and national development.
Dr Mnangagwa said investing time, knowledge and resources in uplifting others creates opportunities not only for individuals but also contributes to the country’s sustainable development.
“Acts of selflessness, compassion and service have the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and uplift our nation,” she said.
“The theme, Give To Gain, calls upon us to recognise that when we invest in supporting others, we create opportunities for shared prosperity and national development.”
Dr Mnangagwa said giving should be viewed as a pathway to dignity, unity and hope for all citizens.
Through the Angel of Hope Foundation, the First Lady said efforts would continue to focus on assisting vulnerable members of society, particularly women and girls, through programmes that improve access to healthcare, education and economic empowerment.
The First Lady, affectionately known as Mother Zimbabwe, said such initiatives play a critical role in improving livelihoods and ensuring women and girls have the tools needed to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Meaningful transformation begins with small acts,” she said.
“Each gesture of giving strengthens families, communities and the nation as a whole.”
Dr Mnangagwa urged women and girls across the country to harness their talents and positively influence their communities.
“Today, I urge every woman and girl to shine through her skills, kindness and insight, for in sharing we discover dignity, togetherness and hope,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa wished Zimbabweans a joyful and meaningful International Women’s Day as the nation reflects on compassion and collective progress.
Over the years, the Angel of Hope Foundation has spearheaded a number of initiatives aimed at equipping women with practical skills and opportunities to improve their livelihoods, reflecting the spirit of the “Give To Gain” campaign.
Among the initiatives is Agric4She, which supports women in agriculture by encouraging the production of traditional grains, fruits, honey, poultry and other products not only for household consumption but also for commercial purposes and value addition.
Building on this programme, Dr Mnangagwa also introduced Agrotourism4She, a pioneering initiative that links agriculture with tourism by turning rural homesteads into centres where visitors can experience Zimbabwe’s culture and heritage while purchasing locally produced goods such as baobab coffee, honey beverages, traditional grains and artisanal juices.
The initiative has enabled rural women to become entrepreneurs, hosts and marketers, generating income for their families while showcasing the country’s cultural identity.
The First Lady has also championed platforms such as the Women’s Market Galore, which provide women entrepreneurs with opportunities to market their products, build networks and share ideas.
Through mentorship gatherings such as traditional-themed bush dinners and luncheons held across the country, aspiring businesswomen receive guidance on developing sustainable enterprises while strengthening collaboration among women.
Empowerment programmes linked to the foundation have also helped women acquire income-generating assets such as livestock, grinding mills and equipment to establish shops and other small businesses.
These initiatives have complemented community-based savings schemes where women pool resources to invest in projects ranging from groceries to vehicles and other productive assets.
Online Reporter