Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GWANDA District on Thursday held its district World Donkey Day commemorations, a day which seeks to enhance the welfare of donkeys.
The day, which was held under the theme “Donkeys serving as the shoulders, legs, arms and backs of women in rural Zimbabwe” was held at Manama Business Centre in Ward 17.
The event was organised by Women and Land In Zimbabwe under the “Advancing work donkey welfare standards for enhancing women empowerment and building resilient livelihoods” programme.
The programme, which was recently rolled out in Gwanda District, seeks to educate and raise awareness on the proper care of donkeys, which are often neglected and abused.
The event saw farmers being judged for the condition of their farms. Seven farmers received awards.
In a speech during the event, Gwanda District Development Coordinator, Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu said donkey welfare is a crucial issue, particularly in the district where they are integral to daily life.
“Working donkeys play a central role in our communities, but their work often goes unnoticed by the wider world, with sparse documentation of their role, value, or welfare. Today we are gathered here to recognise the role donkeys play in our day-to-day lives in building a strong community resilience and driving economic development.
“We are grateful for the initiative by Women and Land in Zimbabwe for partnering Government in promoting the welfare of donkeys in Gwanda district particularly in wards 19, 17 and 2 as part of efforts towards the NSD1 Food and Nutrition Security cluster,” she said.
@DubeMatutu
