Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa-Senior Reporter
THE First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa’s philanthropic work through the Angel of Hope Foundation to support vulnerable Nyabira community members continues to attract partnerships from several organisations.
The latest partner is Muslim for Development and Empowerment, which has joined forces with the Angel of Hope Foundation to donate food hampers to vulnerable members of the Nyabira community, including the elderly, widows, child-headed families, and people with disabilities, among others.
The donation adds to contributions from other stakeholders, including the Mashonaland West women’s business community, reflecting growing unity and collective action in responding to humanitarian needs in Nyabira.
The donation complements the First Lady’s ongoing humanitarian work in Nyabira, where many families live in open settlements without land for farming or access to sustainable livelihoods, leaving households at risk of hunger.
Dr Mnangagwa has consistently extended support to the community, easing the burden on struggling families.
In addition to a weekly feeding programme providing nutritious meals for children, she distributed food hampers to more than 1,000 families during the festive season.
Inspired by the First Lady’s hands-on and compassionate approach, members of Muslim for Development and Empowerment mobilised assorted food items to support her efforts, particularly in assisting vulnerable families, emphasising that citizens’ welfare is a shared responsibility that transcends faith and social differences.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation the national vice-chairperson, Timothy Perego, said the First Lady’s example had motivated them to act.
“We were moved by the First Lady’s consistent support for vulnerable people. As the Muslim community, we felt compelled to partner with her in supporting the elderly, widows, child-headed households, and people with disabilities,” he said.
Residents of Nyabira expressed heartfelt gratitude to the First Lady and her partners, saying the assistance brought relief and dignity to their lives.
Widow Granny Annah Munenza said Dr Mnangagwa had remained a pillar of support during difficult times.
“Our First Lady has been our angel of hope since the time we faced serious challenges. She has been like a mother to us, ensuring that we have food,” she said.
“She also supports our children through a weekly feeding scheme, and for that we are truly grateful.”
Another beneficiary, Tasiyana Wazata, described the continued support as deeply meaningful.
“Being remembered by Amai Mnangagwa is very important to us. We thank her for thinking of both the young and the elderly. She should continue this good work,” she said.
Widow Nyarai Mabvondo echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the impact of the food assistance on widows and orphans.
“We are very thankful for the work being done by our First Lady to ensure we have food. We appreciate being remembered as widows,” she said.
Mr Forosi Majara said the community was encouraged by the First Lady’s consistency since the programme began.
“From the very beginning, she has never abandoned us. We continue to walk this journey with her. Our First Lady is truly compassionate. May she continue to stand with us and all of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Mr Benjamin Karidza noted that the support went beyond food, describing the First Lady as a mother to the vulnerable.
“We thank her for taking care of us. She is truly a mother to all the vulnerable. May her helping hand continue to reach even further,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Josiah Muchineripo, described the assistance as invaluable.
“What the First Lady is doing for us is very important, and we are thankful. We will always remember this gesture,” he said.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, commended the First Lady, noting that even during Christmas holidays she spares her precious time to provide for the community.
Minister Chombo said the First Lady has a compassionate heart and consistently prioritises the welfare of vulnerable members of society, inspiring communities to unite in support of those in need.
Local councillor Kudzanai Bako also praised the First Lady for her unwavering support.
“We want to thank Her Excellency for standing with us from day one and for bringing partners to support our community. We are forever grateful,” he said.
The initiative has brought relief to hundreds of households, demonstrating how partnerships driven by compassion can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable communities.
