Online Reporter
Zimpapers Writer
PLUMTREE residents have united in a remarkable show of compassion, donating essential items to a baby girl who was found abandoned in the bush on Christmas Eve, last year.
The three-day-old infant was discovered near Plumtree High School sewage ponds, soaked in mud and drenched by rain. She was rushed to Plumtree District Hospital, where she has since been kept under medical care and is reported to be in a stable condition.
Moved by the baby’s plight, members of the community have donated clothes, blankets and toiletries to ensure her comfort and well-being as she remains at the hospital.
Despite the outpouring of support, the baby’s mother has not yet been traced, and efforts are ongoing to locate her so that the matter can be formally handled by the police.
The incident has raised alarm in the border town, coming barely three months after another case of baby dumping in September last year, when a baby boy was found abandoned by the roadside by a passerby.
Mr Chazani Mpofu, who co-ordinated the donation drive, said residents were deeply troubled by the emerging trend.
“As Plumtree residents, we are very concerned by this increase in baby dumping cases. We must be responsible citizens and protect innocent lives,” he said.
“If anyone knows of a person who was pregnant but no longer has a baby, or has information about a reported stillbirth, they should immediately notify the police.”
Plumtree Mayor, Alderman Similo Ndlovu, also expressed concern over the incidents but commended residents for their swift and humane response.
“It is worrying that such cases are becoming more frequent in our town. However, I am encouraged by the spirit of philanthropy shown by residents who have taken it upon themselves to save an innocent life.
“This level of community solidarity is rare and commendable,” he said.
derick.khumalo