Chronicle Editor
Sione Amidu, Gwanda Correspondent
GWANDA Municipality is targeting to raise US$10 000 for the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund to benefit 200 beneficiaries.
So far, the local authority raised over US$4 000 at the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund dinner launch.
The launch, which was attended by the business community, residents, and various stakeholders, was held at a local hotel last week.
Stakeholders committed to donate several grocery items comprising foodstuffs, clothes and money. The local authority has invited other stakeholders to come on board as they continue to mobilise resources that will go towards assisting the underprivileged.
Speaking during the launch, Gwanda Mayor Councillor Thulani Moyo said the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund, which is meant to help those in need, will run throughout the year.
“The Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund launch marks an awakening that the Christmas Season is upon us. We have in our midst families who will not be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas due to financial challenges,” he said.
“The Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund shall continue to run throughout the year and we will not only wait for the festive season. Our target for 2023 has been set at US$10 000, and as our esteemed partners, I make a call to you to help us fundraise and assist the less privileged among us,” he said.
Clr Moyo pleaded with the community to open their hearts and assist the aged, needy, orphans and vulnerable children.
He also urged stakeholders to partake in developing the town.
“The need for community social welfare is great in our communities and as such we will continue to knock at your doors and ask you to partner with us in various fundraising initiatives and efforts to help our needy community members,” said Clr Moyo.
“Our vision is to attain a city status by 2028, and this dream can only be made possible through multi-stakeholder collaborations, public-private partnerships and meaningful citizen engagement. I call upon all corporates, business community members and interested parties to render themselves available in the development of our town, Gwanda.”
Clr Moyo also urged stakeholders to partner with the council and the education sector in coming up with vocational training institutions in Gwanda.
He said land is available which can be used to establish these centres.
Clr Moyo said vocational training institutions can absorb the local youths and aid in the fight against drugs and substance abuse.
He said such projects and the development of the town can help to improve livelihoods and assist the underprivileged.
Speaking during the same event, Gwanda Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund chairperson Mr Akim Mpofu said the selection criteria of 200 beneficiaries of the fund will be spearheaded by different departments to ensure transparency.
“The proceeds from this initiative will benefit 200 beneficiaries who will be identified by independent individuals from the community. This will ensure that these resources reach the intended beneficiaries, following a public outcry that some of the goodies are not received by the rightful owners,” he said.
Mr Mpofu said the committee will also work with the Department of Social Welfare, councillors, churches and the local community to come up with a list of the rightful people,
He urged stakeholders to submit their contributions to the committee throughout the year.
“Those who wish to donate to the fund in support of the less fortunate citizens, the elderly, the poor, and the disabled should continue to do so throughout the year. This committee has thrown its weight behind the town mayor’s vision that a fund should be established and continue to function throughout the year,” said Mr Mpofu.
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