derick.khumalo
Zimpapers Reporter
THE Women in Business Initiative for Economic Development has extended the spirit of Zimbabwe’s National Clean-Up Campaign by reaching out to homeless people in Bulawayo through a feeding programme aimed at supporting vulnerable members of the community.
The initiative followed the national clean-up campaign held on July 3, with the organisation saying building sustainable communities goes beyond maintaining clean public spaces and also requires caring for those in need.
Co-ordinated by the provincial chairperson, Mrs Deseree Malaba-Zhou, under the guidance of the national chairperson, Councillor Anna Sibanda, the programme brought together women entrepreneurs, business leaders and volunteers to prepare and distribute nutritious meals to homeless people across the city.
The volunteers also donated bottled water as part of efforts to assist people facing difficult living conditions.
Speaking during the outreach programme, the organisation’s national vice chairperson, Mrs Moreblessing Muzvidziwa, said community empowerment should not be limited to economic development but should also focus on ensuring vulnerable members of society are supported.
She said creating inclusive communities required collective efforts to ensure that no one was left behind.
The beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude for the meals and the compassion shown by the volunteers.
The organisation said the programme not only addressed immediate hunger but also offered hope and reassurance to people experiencing hardship.
Women in Business Initiative for Economic Development has called on businesses, community organisations and individuals to support similar initiatives through donations, partnerships and volunteerism.
The organisation said collective action was essential in addressing homelessness and food insecurity while strengthening community solidarity.
As Bulawayo continues to pursue economic growth and social development, the organisation said it remains committed to programmes that uplift vulnerable communities while encouraging women to play a leading role in community transformation.
Its community engagement activities will continue with a High Tea event scheduled for September 12 under the theme, “Women Building Bulawayo.”
The event is expected to bring together women entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers and development partners to celebrate the achievements of women in business, strengthen professional networks and explore innovative ways of contributing to Bulawayo’s economic growth and sustainable development.
The organisation said such initiatives demonstrate the important role women play in building a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous city
