Good Deeds Day Commemoration

Arron Nyamayaro

A number of men and women— including people living with disabilities—have been changing lives across the country, a Deputy Minister has said.

Deputy Minister of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises, Honourable Jennifer Mhlanga, said this during the Good Deeds Day Zimbabwe 10th Anniversary Commemoration at the weekend.

Good Deeds Day is a global movement that promotes volunteerism and encourages acts of kindness. Over the past decade, it has grown in Zimbabwe through partnerships between the government and civic organisations.

Among those recognised were Tilder Moyo of Tilder Foundation, Gladys Masembura, Vongai Shoko of Mberengwa, Peter Kuvarika, and Fungai Tawandirwa of Nyanga, among others.

Tilder Moyo, a StarFM radio presenter, was honoured for her efforts both on and off the radio. She has been transforming lives through donations of food, clothing, shelter and transport.

Gladys Masembura, a board member for women living with disabilities, was also recognised for her contributions.

Shoko was appreciated for mobilising community women to build a house for their kraal head.

The commemoration was held under the theme: “A Decade of Doing Good: A Century of Impact.” 

Mhlanga attended as the guest of honour, representing the Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.

In her speech, Mhlanga said the milestone shows that Zimbabwe is part of a wider global effort. She said the dual anniversary—10 years of impact in Zimbabwe and 20 years globally—reminds citizens that local efforts contribute to a movement that has inspired millions across continents to embrace service and compassion.

“Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Each act, no matter how small, has contributed to building a stronger, more compassionate Zimbabwe and a more connected, caring world. It is important to work together as communities and government to drive development,” Hon Mhlanga said.

She added: “Citizens have played a key role in supporting communities where government efforts are limited. Where the government’s hand cannot reach, you have done it for us; all the wonderful people have done it for the government.”

Mhlanga also emphasised the need for inclusive development, especially empowering women and vulnerable groups.

“We must not leave anybody or any place behind; women, who make up 52 per cent of the population, remain a priority through financial and technical support programmes,” she added.

In his remarks, Senator Tawengwa, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in the Harare Metropolitan Province, said the gathering was not only a celebration of years, but a reflection of impact, commitment, and collective action.

“Over the past decade, Good Deeds Day Zimbabwe has demonstrated that sustainable transformation within our communities does not solely depend on the availability of vast financial resources, but rather on the willingness of citizens to act, serve, and uplift one another,” he said.

He added that through volunteerism, acts of kindness, and community-driven initiatives, the movement had touched countless lives, strengthened social cohesion, and promoted compassion and responsibility across society.

Senator Tawengwa said the work of Good Deeds Day Zimbabwe was highly commendable and aligned with the Government’s development agenda—particularly National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which emphasises inclusive growth, social protection and community empowerment.

He also noted that the initiatives contribute meaningfully to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including poverty reduction, quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, and the promotion of sustainable cities and communities.

Senator Tawengwa further stated that the deliberate inclusion of persons living with disabilities reflects Zimbabwe’s National Disability Policy, which advocates for equal participation, dignity and empowerment for all citizens.

He also commended the organisation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, saying initiatives linked to sustainable waste management—including those aligned to the Geo Pomona Waste Management Project—highlight the important role communities play in protecting the environment.

As Harare Metropolitan, he said, the province continues to prioritise clean, green and resilient urban spaces, and such initiatives help advance that agenda.

“What stands out most about Good Deeds Day Zimbabwe is the powerful message that meaningful change does not always require financial capital. Rather, it requires commitment, unity of purpose, and a sense of shared responsibility,” he said.

He linked the spirit of volunteerism to His Excellency the President’s vision and mantra of building Zimbabwe “brick by brick,” where every citizen contributes to national development through their actions, no matter how small.

Senator Tawengwa said the double milestone—ten years of impact in Zimbabwe and twenty years globally—was a reminder that lasting change is achieved through consistency, collaboration and dedication.