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The Zimpapers Group, through its Digital Media Division, has launched a week-long charity drive from February 15 to 22, 2014 to mobilise Zimbabweans to respond to the plight of communities affected by floods following torrential rains in some low-lying parts of the country.
The initiative will primarily benefit communities affected by flooding in the Tokwe-Mukosi Dam area, which President Mugabe has declared a national disaster and has placed 60 000 families at risk.
People in Tsholotsho, where floods have marooned pupils at a boarding school, will also benefit.
The initiative is in response to discussions on the organisation’s social networking platforms, in which Zimbabweans from across the spectrum have expressed a willingness to render assistance to their fellow citizens who are in dire straits.
The group’s Social Media Editor, Miss Delta Ndou, said the initiative was inspired by online discussions which indicated that many people were eager to help but were not sure how best to channel their contributions.
“After following the discussions that were taking place on our various social networking platforms, we realised that many Zimbabweans are touched by the plight of the communities affected by flooding and are willing to lend a hand. This initiative is a direct response to that desire to offer help,” she said.
Zimpapers’ Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr Pikirayi Deketeke, said the initiative would facilitate collective responses by Zimbabweans to assist their compatriots in need.
“As an organisation we have decided to avail our offices nationwide to receive any donations from well-wishers and ensure that these supplies are delivered to those who desperately need them. Whether the donations come in the form of clothing, non-perishables or other supplies that members of the public are willing to provide, we will ensure delivery to the intended recipients,” he said.
Mr Deketeke said that Zimbabwe’s largest media group would play a co-ordinating role by receiving and transporting donations to those affected by flooding, and would liaise with the relevant authorities to ensure that the process was both transparent and complimentary to similar efforts already underway.
ZIMPAPERS offices and contact persons
Harare
Contact person: Costa Mano, Online News Editor 0772 440 862
Herald House
Cnr George Silundika and Sam Nujoma
Online Reporter