Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
Senior Reporter
SELFLESS bus loaders, who perform menial jobs, saved every bit of their hard-earned cash to buy an assortment of groceries, which they donated to First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa for distribution at her Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre.
The First Lady was visibly moved by the gesture, as the bus loaders had to save for a long time to raise the money needed to purchase the groceries. Their dedication demonstrated remarkable maturity as they joined Dr Mnangagwa in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
The bus loaders met Dr Mnangagwa at her Zimbabwe House offices in Harare to hand over the groceries.
The group, which operates at Simon Vengayi Muzenda Bus Terminus (formerly Fourth Street Bus Terminus), despite having limited means, defied expectations with their selfless contribution to the Angel of Hope Foundation, proving that true kindness does not require abundance.
As they handed over the donation, they said they were inspired by the First Lady’s numerous philanthropic initiatives, including the Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre, which motivated their contribution.
Upon receiving the donation, Dr Mnangagwa expressed her deep gratitude, praising the bus loaders for saving diligently to support others.
“I am touched by your thoughtfulness and by the way you committedly saved and dedicated your resources to offer this support.
“When you carry another person’s burden in your heart, it is a sign of maturity and true greatness. You understand that even when you may not be physically present, it remains your duty to stand in and support others,” she said.
The First Lady held an interactive session with the bus loaders, discussing the dangers of drug and substance abuse while listening to their daily work experiences.
“The menace of drugs is a burden we all share. I trust that you will continue to distance yourselves from such destructive practices,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa also commended the youths for exemplifying the value of Ubuntu, noting that their conduct reflects good upbringing.
She added that passengers often complain of facing numerous challenges, including theft, harassment, and other troubling experiences.
“I had been concerned, fearing that you might have been influenced by those who use vulgar language or harass passengers. Yet your decision to come here today reveals your true character. You have risen above such behaviour.
“If only many others could follow this example across all levels and throughout every province. I sincerely thank you for the commendable conduct you are demonstrating.”
One of the bus loaders, Tafadzwa Simbarasi, shared what motivated them to contribute.
“We are deeply inspired by the work of our First Lady. We decided that with the little we have, we should lend a hand to support her fight against drug and substance abuse.
“Our First Lady is a mother to all, regardless of background or status, so we agreed among ourselves to contribute some groceries.”
Another bus loader, Sandra Dudzai Goto, said Dr Mnangagwa is an inspiration to the nation and beyond.
“When we saw the First Lady leading the fight against drug and substance abuse by opening a rehabilitation centre, we felt we should also play our part in supporting her noble cause.
“We stand firmly with her in the fight against drugs,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa’s concern for the welfare of vulnerable groups has seen her visit all ten provinces, donating resources without being selective.
The growing support for the Angel of Hope Foundation from various organisations and individuals demonstrates how the First Lady’s work resonates with Zimbabweans from all walks of life.
