Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube
MEMBERS of the Bulilimamangwe Women Network have rallied around a month old baby girl from Bulilima after her mother died just weeks after giving birth, leaving the infant in desperate need of help.
The Women’s Network, made up of female police officers in Matabeleland South, stepped in when the grieving family struggled to transport the body of the late Buthani Ndlovu from Bulawayo to Plumtree for burial.
Buthani (29) gave birth to little Auxillia Sibusiso Ndlovu at United Bulawayo Central Hospital on 30 October. Complications followed and she tragically passed away last Saturday, plunging the family into both emotional and financial distress. She was buried today in Nyele village, Bulilima District.
Upon learning of the crisis, the women officers mobilised resources to ensure the young mother received a dignified send off and that baby Auxillia had essentials to survive.
Bulilimamangwe Women Network Chairperson Superintendent Rosemary Mangena said the officers could not ignore the situation.
“We were touched by the plight of the family after the sad death of her mother. The family needed assistance in conducting the burial and we chipped in together with the local MP Dingumuzi Phuthi who donated a coffin and provided fuel to assist in the burial. We provided a blanket, flowers and baby necessities,” she said.
Their generous package included diapers, clothes, baby formula and other items that will help relatives care for the infant in her first fragile months.
Sup Mangena said supporting vulnerable families is part of the network’s mandate, stressing that their work goes beyond policing.
She added that nation building and community responsibility are key pillars of the Women Network, which is active across all SADC countries.
In a moment of heartbreak, the female officers became a beacon of hope, ensuring baby Auxillia’s journey continues with dignity, care and the support of her wider community.
