Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Sunday News Reporter
DEPENDANTS of Zimbabwe’s liberation heroes and heroines have received a major boost after a Japan-based non-governmental organisation, NPO Ubuntu, donated hundreds of boxes of detergents and personal care products to support vulnerable families of the country’s fallen freedom fighters.
The donation was handed over to the Heroes Dependants Assistance Board at Warringham Farm on Thursday for distribution to widows, widowers and children of liberation war heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
The gesture comes as the Second Republic continues to emphasise the welfare of liberation war veterans and their families through various social protection programmes in line with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which prioritises inclusive social development and leaving no one and no place behind.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Heroes Dependants assistance board chairperson Cde Beauty Sibanda said the consignment would ease the burden faced by many beneficiary families.
“This donation is not merely hundreds of boxes of soap, detergents and personal care products but a symbol of compassion, solidarity and recognition to the families of those who sacrificed for our nation’s freedom. It sends a clear message that the sacrifices made by our heroes and heroines remain honoured and that their dependants have not been forgotten,” she said.
Cde Sibanda said many dependants continue to face socio-economic challenges and appealed for continued support from Government, development partners, the private sector and well-wishers.
“These might appear to be simple household items, but they will make a significant difference in restoring dignity, improving living conditions and easing the burden faced by vulnerable families. This generosity will bring comfort and hope to many households across the country,” she said.
Cde Sibanda assured donors that the assistance would be distributed transparently and reach the intended beneficiaries.
“We regard ourselves as faithful custodians of every resource entrusted to us and we will ensure that this generous donation from NPO Ubuntu has the greatest possible impact on the intended beneficiaries,” she said.
Heroes Dependants Assistance Board commissioner Mrs Gladys Moyo said the board derives its mandate from the National Heroes Act, which places responsibility on it to mobilise resources and coordinate programmes that improve the welfare of dependants of national heroes.
“The Act entrusts the board with promoting the welfare of heroes’ and heroines’ dependants through the mobilisation of resources and the facilitation of sustainable support programmes. This important responsibility reflects our collective obligation to honour the legacy of our heroes and heroines by ensuring that their families are afforded the dignity, care and opportunities they deserve,” she said.
Under the Second Republic, Government has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the legacy of the liberation struggle while improving the welfare of veterans and dependants through empowerment initiatives, social support programmes and partnerships with local and international organisations.
