Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike-Senior Reporter
VICE President Kembo Mohadi has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to the protection and welfare of every child in Zimbabwe, saying the responsibility requires collective effort.
VP Mohadi made the remarks after touring Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa Children’s Home in Chambuta, Chiredzi, where he described the institution as a place of hope and transformation for vulnerable children.
He commended First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa for her continued dedication to caring for, protecting and developing children.
“This visit is particularly significant because it reaffirms our Government’s commitment to the protection and welfare of every child in Zimbabwe.
“Allow me to pay special tribute to the First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, whose vision and compassion have brought life and a better future to the children here present.
“Her tireless efforts to provide a nurturing environment for children, who once lived on the streets, are a shining example of leadership with heart,” he said. VP Mohadi said the First Lady’s work went beyond providing shelter to less privileged children, as it also created opportunities for them.
He cited the success story of a boy from the welfare facility who travelled to India to study on scholarship.
“Her vision is not only about shelter, but about opportunity. We have already seen remarkable outcomes, such as one of the boys from this home who recently travelled to India on a Presidential Scholarship.
“This success story is proof that when children are given care, education, and opportunity, they can rise to greatness and contribute meaningfully to our nation. The welfare of children requires collective responsibility.”
The Vice President said he was impressed by the results being achieved through the partnership between Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa’s Angel of Hope Foundation and other stakeholders.
He said the partnerships had been instrumental in mobilising resources towards children’s welfare.
“I am pleased to highlight the Public-Private Partnership model that has been adopted here, where Government works hand in hand with Angel of Hope Foundation, Urban and Rural Councils Associations of Zimbabwe, the private sector, and development partners.
“Local authorities have been instrumental in mobilising resources to complement Government efforts, ensuring that children receive, not only shelter but also, education, nutrition, and skills development.
“This collaboration demonstrates that child protection is not the responsibility of one Ministry alone, but a whole-of-society approach.”
VP Mohadi reminded the children that they were an integral part of the country’s future and urged them not to allow their circumstances to define them.
“The circumstances that brought you here do not define who you are. Your dreams are valid, your potential is immense, and your future can be as bright as your determination and hard work will allow you to go beyond the limits of the sky.
“Among you are future doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, athletes, and leaders of Zimbabwe. This institution is so full of talents of all sorts and all that is needed is to nurture it.”
He said children played an integral role in the attainment of Vision 2030 and should not be left behind.
“As Government, we are implementing National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2) as part of our journey towards Vision 2030. But Vision 2030 cannot be achieved if vulnerable children are left behind. You are not merely beneficiaries of development; you are central participants in building the prosperous and empowered Zimbabwe we all aspire to.”
The Vice President said the true measure of national development lies not only in infrastructure or economic indicators, but in the quality of life of the people, the strength of families, and the protection and empowerment of children.
He called for strengthened collaboration among ministries, local authorities, the private sector, faith-based organisations, communities, and individuals to support vulnerable children.
“Together, we can ensure that no child and no community is left behind.”
Addressing the children, he said: “As Zimbabwe advances towards Vision 2030, you have a place in that vision. Dream big. Work hard. Remain disciplined. Respect others. Reject drug abuse. Believe in education, perseverance, and hard work. You are the future. Be responsible leaders. Zimbabwe needs your talents, ideas, and energy. Together, let us accelerate towards Vision 2030, implement National Development Strategy 2, and build a Zimbabwe where every child has dignity, protection, and opportunity.”
Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira praised the First Lady’s Angel of Hope Foundation for transforming the lives of former street children, saying it has “transcended traditional residential care to become a launchpad for young lives.”
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo announced that construction of a school at Chambuta will commence soon, with plans already underway.
