Online Reporter
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Correspondent
BETHEL Facilities & Conference Centre was transformed into a vibrant hub of generosity and hope last Friday evening as the Ruwa Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund hosted its annual fundraising dinner.
The black-tie event, themed “A Touch of Colour,” drew a diverse crowd of business leaders, educators, local officials, and residents, all united by a common goal: to spread Christmas cheer to Ruwa’s underprivileged families, students, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the Mayor and the Ruwa Local Board, has become a cornerstone of the town’s festive season, mobilising resources and goodwill to ensure no one is left behind during the holidays.
Record-Breaking Support and Corporate Generosity
This year’s event exceeded expectations, with organisers announcing that the fund is on track to surpassing its target of reaching more than 150 families. The evening was marked by a spirit of gratitude and collaboration, as local corporates and educational institutions stepped forward with substantial contributions.
The guest of honour, representing First Choice Group of Schools, pledged US$2,000—one of the largest single donations in the fund’s history. Other notable sponsors included ZB Bank, NMB Bank, Satclaw, Kalundike, Shelter Zimbabwe, Pro Brands, Pro Dairy, Pro Bottlers, and Bethel Facilities & Conference Centre, which provided the venue at a significant discount. Private schools such as Little Eton, Wynwood College, Rivercrest, and Best Choice Group of Schools also played a pivotal role in supporting the cause.
Ruwa Mayor Councillor Michael Mataruka said that the outpouring of support from their corporate partners and schools is truly humbling.
“Their generosity is not just about money—it’s about investing in the future of Ruwa and ensuring that every child and family feels valued and included this Christmas,” he said.
Empowering Students and Families: Tangible Impact
A hallmark of the Ruwa Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund is its commitment to long-term empowerment. This year, nine students—one from each of Ruwa’s nine wards—will receive full sponsorship for their education from primary through secondary school. The selection process, coordinated by the Mayor and local councillors, targets the most vulnerable children, offering them a pathway out of poverty through education.
The fund’s impact is already evident in the testimonies of past beneficiaries. At the dinner, Councillor Guide Ndawana recounted the story of a Windsor student who, after receiving sponsorship last year, returned to share his academic progress and inspire further pledges from attendees. In a gesture of encouragement, a teacher whose students achieved the best results in Ruwa was awarded a brand new Samsung phone, fulfilling a promise made by Mayor Mataruka at the previous year’s event.
Ruwa Local Board Public Relations and Communications Officer Ms Josephine Mwaitirwa said that they are not just giving handouts; they are changing lives.
“The stories we hear from our sponsored students and families remind us why this work matters. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and building a stronger, more compassionate Ruwa,” she said.
Beyond Christmas: Building a Culture of Giving
The evening was not only about fundraising but also about fostering a culture of collective responsibility. ZB Bank pledged to sponsor a Ruwa community quiz competition, while another company expressed interest in supporting a local soccer tournament—initiatives designed to promote unity and engagement beyond the festive season.
The event also marked a significant leadership transition, with outgoing chair Mr Chiko handing over the reins to Bishop Reverend Magomo. The new chair pledged to build on the fund’s legacy and explore new avenues for community empowerment, including plans for financial literacy and entrepreneurship workshops in the coming year.
The Power of Partnership: Corporate Social Responsibility in Action
The breadth of support for the Ruwa Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund reflects a growing trend of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Zimbabwe. Banks like ZB and NMB have a track record of supporting educational and social welfare initiatives, while companies in the food and beverage sector, such as Pro Brands and Pro Bottlers, regularly contribute to community events and food security programmes. Private schools, too, are increasingly active in scholarship and outreach efforts, recognising their role in shaping the next generation.
