Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
STAKEHOLDERS in Gwanda have come together in a show of solidarity to mobilise resources in support of elderly residents aged 80 and above, providing them with essential items such as food, clothing and blankets.
The initiative, driven by a coalition of community leaders, residents and the local business community, recently donated to the Gwanda Old People’s Home, which has nine elderly people. The donation included 15 blankets and groceries.
Proportional representation Councillor Nomusa Sibanda from Gwanda Municipality, who spearheaded the programme, said the drive was born out of a realisation that community-led action is key to local development.
“When we launched this initiative last year, our focus was on elderly residents living within the community, many of whom are either living alone or under the care of grandchildren, often without basic necessities,” said Clr Sibanda.
“As we progressed, we realised that the Gwanda Old People’s Home also faces challenges, and we decided to incorporate it into the programme. It’s up to us as the people of Gwanda to take responsibility for the well-being of our own.”
Clr Sibanda called on more stakeholders and individuals to support the initiative through donations, stressing that such efforts play a critical role in enhancing the lives of the elderly.
Speaking during the donation handover, Gwanda mayor Alderman Thulani Moyo applauded those involved in the initiative and urged others to emulate the culture of giving.
“It’s disheartening that some families are throwing away food and items such as blankets, which could make a difference for inmates at Gwanda Old People’s Home or others in need,” he said.
“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, has said ‘ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo’, which means we have a duty to care for our most vulnerable. We cannot talk about development if some among us are going hungry.”
Speaking on behalf of the Gwanda Old People’s Home committee, Ms Ruth Zulu expressed gratitude for the support, saying the donation would go a long way in addressing the home’s persistent resource shortages.
“This donation fills a critical gap. We are constantly in need of basic supplies to ensure the elderly live in dignity. Every contribution enables us to improve our care of the elderly,” she said.
@DubeMatutu
