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Joshua Muswere, Zimpapers Writer
RESTAURANTS for Economic Development (Restaurants4ED), a Zanu-PF affiliate, has launched a feeding programme targeting vulnerable and homeless people in Bulawayo as part of efforts to complement Government initiatives aimed at supporting marginalised communities.
The programme, launched recently at Centenary Park, aligns with President Mnangagwa’s development philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind” and the broader Zanu-PF agenda of extending social assistance across all 10 provinces.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube — who was represented by the deputy director for co-ordination in her office, Mr Pardon Mnyaka — said the programme demonstrated the party’s commitment to social inclusion, particularly the care of vulnerable groups such as the homeless, the elderly and children.
“This is a thoughtful programme hosted by Restaurants4ED, and we would therefore like to express our deep appreciation and gratitude to Restaurants for Economic Development for conceptualising and implementing such a noble initiative.
“In a world where many have turned a blind eye to suffering, they have chosen to step forward — to feed, to clothe, to dance and celebrate with children. No one should be left behind, especially our children,” she said.
National chairperson of Restaurants4ED, Ms Ntombenhle Ncube, said the feeding programme was part of efforts to support President Mnangagwa’s inclusive development agenda and Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy.
“Zimbabwe, under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, is working towards becoming an upper middle-income economy by 2030, and as Restaurants4ED we are rallying behind that national vision.
“We are saying that as long as Restaurants4ED exists, no homeless child should go hungry. We are appealing to players in the food industry to join hands in feeding the nation for a better Zimbabwe, truly leaving no one and no place behind,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Phylon Proud Moyo, expressed gratitude for the assistance and appealed for sustainable empowerment initiatives.“I would really like to appreciate the President for sending such people in our direction. We are not here because we are mentally ill, thieves or drug addicts. We are ordinary people facing life’s hardships.
“All we ask for is lasting empowerment. We are hard-working individuals who survive through honest work, and we would appreciate opportunities for employment to help us change our circumstances,” he said.
The feeding programme is expected to continue as part of ongoing community outreach efforts targeting vulnerable groups in Bulawayo.
Online Reporter