Online Reporter
Samuel Kadungure
News Editor
IN the bustling streets of Mutare, alive with the desperation of poverty, and where the evil lure of drugs and substance abuse is a constant threat, a group of men often maligned and feared by the public are quietly making a positive difference for the community.
A group of rank marshals, often maligned for their rough demeanour, have pooled their resources to change the lives of 150 vulnerable primary school children in Sakubva and Dangamvura.
Behind their tough exterior, beats a heart of gold.
Under the banner Mahwindi4ED, the ZANU PF affiliate, comprising rank marshals injected over US$8 000 into school and examination fees, rescuing the academic dreams of children from impoverished backgrounds at 10 high-density schools, including some of the most disadvantaged learners who had been forced to drop out of school.
The payments were made last Friday by the group’s Manicaland chapter at Government and council primary schools.
The initiative was led by ZANU PF Central Committee member, Cde Isau Mupfumi, Mutare District Coordination Committee (DCC) secretary for education, Councillor Shepherd Jojo, special advisor for Mahwindi4ED, Cde Jealous Mukorera, and the affiliate provincial chairperson, Cde Herman Nyika.
Zamba, Sakubva, Mutanda, Dangare, Chisamba, Rujeko, Gimboki, Chirovakamwe, Sheni, and Dangamvura Primary schools each had 15 vulnerable children benefitting from the gesture, covering school fees and registration fees for Grades Six and Seven — making the impact palpable— with children back in classrooms, their faces finally beaming with hope and excitement.
But their kindness did not stop there — when authorities at Mutanda Primary shared a heart-breaking story of one child’s family living in abject poverty without a roof over their heads, Cde Mukorera sprang into action, offering to pay their rent and provide food for the next three months, with plans to support the mother with a job that will earn her a steady income of US$60 per week.
Cde Mukorera said the initiative was prompted by concerns over rising drug abuse among children dropping out of school due to unpaid fees.
“We realised that many children are turning to drugs after dropping out of school due to poverty. We met as Mahwindi4ED and resolved to mobilise funds and pay school fees for vulnerable children on the verge of dropping out of school. Since this is the beginning, we started with a small number (150), but we are looking forward to growing and expanding the scope to benefit a larger pool of children, who are the future leaders of our country,” said Cde Mukorera.
He urged the community not to perceive and shun mahwindi as violent people.
“That is not a fair comment. We are not a violent people – it is just that the name people gave us has negative connotations attached to it. Even at the airport, there are mahwindi, but they are not violent. In fact, you call them ushers because of the environment they operate in. In the same vein, we are also ushers, not a violent lot. We are there to help the commuting community, offering help and information to those who need it. That is our duty, not to intimidate or harass the commuting public.
“We should unite, help each other and develop our country in line with the President’s Vision 2030, and mantra of leaving no one and no place behind. We need to be mindful that every dollar counts, and means the whole world to these poor kids. We are going to do this every school term,” said Cde Mukorera, urging the beneficiaries to take school seriously, and work hard to pursue their dreams, as this marks the beginning of a brighter future for them.
The affiliate provincial chair, Cde Nyika, said the initiative would be expanded to include stationery and other learning materials.
“We are going to continue with this initiative in the coming terms, and also provide stationery among other requirements. Providing holistic support for these children is crucial in ensuring that they stay in school and reach their full potential. Beyond just paying school fees, the children need access to learning materials, nutritious food, and safe environment to learn and grow. By addressing these multiple needs, we can help break the cycle of poverty and give them a fighting chance to succeed,” he said, adding that by targeting education and well-being of vulnerable children, Mahwindi4ED are investing in the future of communities and nation.
School authorities, who received the assistance on behalf of learners, expressed gratitude for the support. They were abuzz with praise for the touts’ selfless act – a rare glimpse into the humane side of individuals often stereotyped as cruel and heartless.
Chisamba Primary School deputy head, Mrs Annamore Mukwazhi said the gesture showed that even the toughest exteriors can hide a heart of gold.
“It is a wonderful thing you are doing. These are the kind of people who need to be celebrated, not vilified. For the children, the support is a Godsend. Some of the children had dropped out of school because their parents could not afford the fees, but thanks to these kind men, they will now be able to continue with their education and make their dreams come true,” she said.
Rujeko Primary School deputy head, Mrs Loice Njerere said being sent back from school for non-payment of fees can have a devastating impact on a child’s confidence and mental health.
“It can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and inadequacy, making them feel like they do not belong or are less worthy than their peers. This can result in decreased self-esteem, anxiety, and a higher likelihood of dropping out of school altogether.
“We had one of the parents here saying she will only get money in February, which shows how tough it is out there. This gesture will restore confidence, pride, and equality in the beneficiaries, making them feel seen, valued, and deserving of the same opportunities as their peers. As Cde Mukorera noted:
‘This marks the beginning of a brighter future for them’, and we can see the smiles and pride on their faces, knowing they are not alone and that there is hope,” said Mrs Njerere.
Mutanda Government Primary School deputy head, Mr Bernard Mareni said the gesture values the education of all kids as many of them are from vulnerable backgrounds.
Councillor Jojo said Mahwindi4ED’s actions serve as a reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can make a profound impact in their communities.
“Their selfless act has rekindled hope in the hearts of many, and serves as a shining example of the power of kindness and generosity. It is a testament to the fact that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their background or circumstances. This initiative will have a lasting impact on these children’s lives, and I am honoured to be a part of it,” he said.
Amid this bleak landscape of Sakubva and Dangamvura, the Mahwindi4ED initiative shines like a beacon of hope.
“These children’s futures hang in the balance, and it is up to us to tip the scales in their favour. We cannot afford to let them slip through the cracks.
“The need for support and generosity has never been more urgent. Let us come together to rescue our juniors from the clutches of addiction and give them a fighting chance to rise above their circumstances. The time is now – let us act before it is too late,” said Cde Mukorera.
