Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa in MUTARE
IN a touching gesture reflecting her compassion and deep bond with the people, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa extended her warmth to delegates attending the ZANU PF 22nd National People’s Conference in Mutare through the distribution of an assortment of food hampers.
The heartfelt initiative carried out on Thursday on the sidelines of the conference brought joy and smiles to the 3 000 delegates, who expressed their gratitude to Mother Zimbabwe for her unwavering generosity.
Her act of kindness reflects a longstanding commitment to serving and empowering others through a range of social initiatives.
By providing for the delegates, Dr Mnangagwa exemplified a philanthropic spirit and steadfast dedication to uplifting communities.
The First Lady, who is also the ZANU PF Secretary for Environment and Tourism in the Politburo, took time to impart life-enriching guidance, emphasising compassion, self-reliance, diligence, strong family values, the transformative power of education, health and wellness, and the importance of unity and national pride.
“A person is defined by their character. To be human is to possess good character. Our nation is God-fearing, which shapes us into a disciplined people. We must always respect one another,” she said.
As Patron of Tourism and Hospitality, Dr Mnangagwa highlighted Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and natural heritage, encouraging the promotion of domestic tourism, taking inspiration from the host province, Manicaland, which she described as breathtaking.
“Let us promote domestic tourism. Forbes has recognised Zimbabwe as a top tourist destination because of our safety and hospitality.
“Tourism is now a strong pillar supporting our economy, alongside agriculture and mining. During the Sanganai Tourism Expo, we met numerous international visitors who praised Manicaland and its warm welcome,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa urged provinces to actively promote domestic tourism, including through hosting sports tournaments, to facilitate cultural exchange and foster national cohesion.
The First Lady also encouraged citizens to uphold traditional values, sharing her experience with her lively Dare initiative of traditional courts presided over by chiefs.
“Let us honour our traditional leaders. Our disputes are adjudicated both in modern courts and in traditional courts. While modern courts do not address spiritual matters, our chiefs ensure justice aligned with tradition.
“I encourage you to observe traditional courts so you are better equipped to navigate similar is-sues,” she said.
With the summer cropping season approaching, Dr Mnangagwa, an avid farmer herself, encouraged the planting of drought-resistant grains.
“The rainy season is approaching. Those in dry areas should prioritise drought-resistant crops. Let us understand and utilise the strengths of our land,” she said.
As Patron of the Environment, she stressed the importance of protecting forests, grasslands and wildlife.
“Our forests and natural grasslands are vital. Elders should also continue passing down knowledge of medicinal plants. Wildlife is diminishing due to hunting.
“Animals are essential to our culture, as many clan totems originate from them. Let us respect and preserve them as part of our history,” she said.
Mother Zimbabwe also addressed pressing social issues, advocating against drug abuse and child marriage.
“Drugs have devastating effects on our children. Combatting this scourge requires collective effort. Mothers, ensure young girls are protected from early pregnancies and child marriages,” she said.
ZANU PF Chairperson and Minister of Defence, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, commended the First Lady for her tireless dedication to uplifting the vulnerable through the Angel of Hope Foundation.
“Truly, a home is built by a woman. The work Amai does transcends politics; her mission is to support the President while uplifting lives through her foundation.
“She inspires us all through her programmes, from teaching children life skills and sewing to promoting traditional values and healthy eating habits that attract tourists,” she said.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri praised her role as Tourism Patron for enhancing Zimbabwe’s global image and her stewardship of the environment and wildlife for the benefit of future generations.
She also lauded Dr Mnangagwa’s commitment to education, having earned a doctorate through dedication and hard work.
“We learn from Amai’s example of love, generosity and moral leadership. Her initiatives combat drug abuse and restore dignity to affected individuals, aligning with Vision 2030,” she said.
ZANU PF Secretary-General and Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda also ex-pressed profound appreciation for the First Lady’s continued service.
“Your strength springs from love, and it is evident in your unwavering care for all Zimbabweans. I challenge beneficiaries to emulate her dedication.
“These gifts are not for resale; they are tokens of her kindness,” he said, urging her to continue her nationwide efforts.
The party’s Political Commissar, Dr Munyaradzi Machacha, praised Mother Zimbabwe for her inclusive and non-partisan outreach.
“Your numerous initiatives uplift our nation, safeguard our values and promote the well-being of our citizens. Your contributions to Zimbabwe are truly deserving of respect. Your support extends not only to ZANU PF members but to all citizens, and today we are deeply honoured by your presence in our home,” he said.
Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Advocate Misheck Mugadza highlighted the province’s natural beauty and tourism potential, describing it as one of Zimbabwe’s most captivating regions.
“This is the mystic Eastern Highlands, a land of mystery, beauty and spirituality, reflecting Zimbabwe’s rich natural and cultural heritage,” he said.
Minister Mugadza showcased Manicaland’s remarkable tourist attractions, beginning with Mount Nyangani, which rises 2 593 metres and serves as both a scenic and spiritual landmark, surrounded by sacred sites.
He also highlighted Mutarazi Falls, the 17th deepest in the world and second in Africa, a natural wonder that continues to captivate visitors. The Vumba Botanical Gardens, home to over 650 bird species, rank among the richest birdlife areas globally.
In Chipinge, one can find one of Africa’s largest trees, while the iconic Birchenough Bridge, reminiscent of the Sydney Harbour Bridge design, stands as a testament to engineering and heritage.
Manicaland also boasts an inland beach, with plans for a world-class hotel underway, as well as the Hot Springs, celebrated for their healing waters.
In Mutare, the Christmas Pass offers a breathtaking vantage point to view Beira, accompanied by a nearby stone shaped like a frog.
The province is further enriched by the Samanyika Museum, which preserves cultural artefacts such as traditional lightning instruments, rusero and chioko chegudo, alongside Buhera’s miniature Great Zimbabwe Monuments, a reflection of the region’s profound historical and cultural heritage.
Mother Zimbabwe continues to travel extensively across the country, ensuring that families, particularly the vulnerable, benefit from her transformative initiatives under the Angel of Hope Foundation.
