Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Writer
THE Government has stepped in to support a Gweru woman, Ms Francisca Zvapera, who has been living with a rare and debilitating medical condition.
Ms Zvapera (38), who resides with relatives in Senga suburb, was born in rural Rusape and has endured severe challenges due to her condition, which has left her unable to walk or speak. Despite undergoing numerous medical examinations, her condition remains undiagnosed.
Over the years, her situation has deteriorated, and by 2019, she had completely lost the ability to walk or talk. The Government’s recent intervention has brought some relief, providing her with access to healthcare services and a wheelchair to ease her mobility struggles.
According to Mrs Rosemary Sibanda, a relative, Ms Zvapera’s condition has long been a burden on the family.
“She could not walk independently from a young age and, because of her condition, she was unable to attend school,” she said.
Mrs Sibanda added that her condition worsened further following the passing of her mother in 2019.
“Before that, she could still make an effort to walk and speak, although it was difficult. After her mother died, she completely lost both abilities. We couldn’t afford a wheelchair, so we used a wheelbarrow to move her around.”
She described the years of uncertainty and frustration the family endured as multiple tests failed to yield a diagnosis.
“We’ve really struggled. She’s a devout Christian who never wants to miss church, so this wheelchair will go a long way in improving her quality of life. We are grateful to the Government for remembering us in our hour of need.”
Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Owen Ncube, said that addressing the social needs of communities is a central pillar of the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda.
“This special intervention aligns with our people-centred leadership under President Mnangagwa’s Social Protection System Strengthening Programme, launched in April 2025, which promotes collective social protection, inclusivity, and community engagement,” he said.
Minister Ncube added that the programme prioritises support for persons with disabilities such as Ms Zvapera, as well as for women, youths, orphaned and vulnerable children, among others.
“This initiative reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in our journey towards becoming a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030,” he said.
