Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
THE First Lady, Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa, has been hailed for her compassion towards the sick and infirm after donating several tons of mealie-meal and other foodstuffs to support food provision at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo.
The donation will help the hospital channel resources to other needy areas in the institution, which has a bed capacity of 1 000.
Handing over the donation at the hospital yesterday, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube, who was represented by Director of Co-ordination in her office, Ms Boetsoarelo Noko, said the donation was a lifeline for patients.
“This is not just a donation of food items, it is a donation of dignity, care, compassion and hope to our patients, staff and many families who depend on this institution for healing and life-serving services,” she said.
“The First Lady`s continued commitment to the welfare of the people of Zimbabwe is deeply felt across the nation. Her heart for the vulnerable, the sick and disadvantaged reflects true servant leadership.”
The minister said the donation speaks volumes about the First Lady’s love for humanity and her unwavering commitment to uplifting communities, especially in public institutions.
She said the donation will go a long way in strengthening patient care, improving nutrition services and easing operational challenges within the hospital.
Minister Ncube said an innumerable number of people will be touched by the donation, as healthcare involves many other things outside medicines and machines.
“When leadership shows care, the nation is inspired to care; when leaders give, the nation learns to give. Let us honour this gesture by continuing to serve with dedication, integrity and compassion,” she said.
“Let us honour this gesture by ensuring that these resources are used responsibly, transparently and for the benefit of those who need them the most.”
Mpilo Central Hospital’s acting director of operations, Mr Phineas Sithole, said the donation will help the hospital to prepare nourishing meals for patients.
Mr Sithole said some of the donated foodstuffs will cover months, while others are around two years’ worth of supply.
“I want to extend our sincere gratitude for this generous donation of mealie-meal from the First Lady. Your support will enable us to prepare nourishing meals for those in need, especially for those who are unwell and may not have access to adequate nutrition,” he said.
“This goes beyond immediate relief but fosters community bonds, drives social change, which will result in stronger, supportive communities.” — @themkhust.
derick.khumalo