Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande
Mashonaland Central Bureau
The enabling environment created by President Mnangagwa continues to strengthen partnerships between the Government, development agencies, and communities in Mbire District.
This week, Mbire hosted its third session of the NGO Forum under the theme “Collaborating for Change”.
The meeting brought together representatives from Government Ministries, local authorities, traditional leaders and development partners operating in the district.
Acting chairperson of the Mbire NGO Forum, Mrs Melody Manyimo from World Vision, applauded the Government of Zimbabwe for its open-door policy, which allows NGOs to complement national development priorities.
She commended the Government for creating space that encourages collective action and effective coordination of development initiatives.
“We are grateful to our Government, particularly our district and community leadership, for providing us with the space and opportunities to carry out our work without limitations,” said Mrs Manyimo.
“The enabling environment under the Second Republic has made it possible for us to align our interventions with national goals and truly impact communities.”
Mrs Manyimo said the theme “Collaborating for Change” reflects a shared commitment between the Government and NGOs to work hand in hand for the transformation of local communities.
“Collaboration is key. Our collective efforts can make a significant impact when we align our resources, knowledge, strengths, and skills,” she said.
She outlined major achievements recorded through coordinated efforts between NGOs and the Government across several thematic areas — including combating malnutrition, improving healthcare access, expanding access to safe drinking water and promoting hygiene education.
Other joint initiatives include support for education through infrastructure development, teacher training and the provision of and scholarships.
Also, promotion of entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods and environmental programmes such as conservation, reforestation and clean energy projects.
“Partners operating in Mbire are also advancing women’s rights, fighting gender-based violence and safeguarding vulnerable children through access to education, health and welfare programmes,” Mrs Manyimo added.
“In disaster preparedness, NGOs are strengthening resilience and rapid response mechanisms. When stakeholders unite their strengths, they create a more inclusive and sustainable approach to addressing the district’s challenges. We must remember that we are not competitors — we complement each other for the benefit of the communities we serve.”
The two-day forum provided a platform for development actors to review progress, share experiences, and explore innovative strategies to accelerate community transformation in line with the Second Republic’s Vision 2030.
Discussions also focused on the implementation of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the transition into National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), both of which serve as guiding blueprints toward achieving Vision 2030.
Mbire Member of Parliament, Cde David Butau, praised NGOs for complementing Government efforts and contributing to sustainable, inclusive growth.
He commended AS Health for delivering essential healthcare services, training personnel and supporting disease prevention initiatives.
“These interventions have expanded access to quality healthcare for communities across the district,” he said.
“Development partners have strengthened the education system through the provision of learning materials, rehabilitation of infrastructure and promotion of literacy programmes. These efforts have improved access to education, particularly for learners in remote and underserved areas.”
Cde Butau added that NGOs have implemented sustainable agriculture programmes, provided food assistance, supported livestock production and promoted community-based livelihood projects.
Mbire District development coordinator, Mr Richard Maruta, applauded the dedication and unity shown by all stakeholders, noting that their efforts mirror the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa, whose “leave no one and no place behind” philosophy continues to guide national development.
“The collaborative spirit we see in Mbire District is a true reflection of teamwork and progress under the Second Republic,” said Mr Maruta.
“Through such partnerships, we are moving steadily toward achieving Vision 2030. Your work in health, education, food security and disaster response has brought real transformation to our communities. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact and build a brighter future for Mbire District.”
Mr Maruta also underscored the need for greater coordination and sustainability among all stakeholders, encouraging the adoption of innovative solutions and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen community resilience.
“Development is most effective when Government, NGOs and communities work hand in hand. Let us continue to strengthen these partnerships and scale up innovations that bring lasting change,” he said.
The Mbire NGO Forum continues to serve as a vital coordination platform linking Government, development partners, and communities — ensuring that all efforts contribute toward inclusive and sustainable growth in Mashonaland Central.
