Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo, [email protected]
VISIONARY Youths for Economic Development, an affiliate of Zanu-PF, has extended a helping hand to Gohole High School in Matobo District, providing an assortment of goods to its pupils. The donation, benefitting over 570 pupils, included school shoes, socks, deodorants, boxer shorts, and sanitary pads. The initiative aims to support disadvantaged learners, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds and orphans.
Speaking at the handover ceremony last Wednesday, Zanu-PF National Youth League Secretary for Transport and Social Welfare, Cde Innocent Dube, emphasised that the gesture aligns with President Mnangagwa’s quest of leaving no one and no place behind.
“Some of the students here come from impoverished backgrounds and others are orphans. This donation is a significant milestone for these children as it represents a collective effort to empower vulnerable children in our community,” he said.
Women’s Quota Councillor for Matobo Rural District Council, Rosebud Siziba, commended Visionary Youths for Economic Development for the initiative, stating it will significantly address the plight of the beneficiaries.
“This is a substantial step towards empowering all vulnerable children in our community. The donation will make a huge difference in the lives of these children. Many families in our area rely on farming, which has been severely impacted by the El Niño-induced drought. This initiative will help alleviate some of the challenges they face,” she said.
Clr Siziba further stressed the importance of empowering children, particularly girls, to ensure a brighter future.
“This donation is also a fitting way to celebrate Women’s Month, as it ensures young girls can attend school with dignity. They are the women of tomorrow and empowering them today secures a better future for them,” she said.
Visionary Youths for Economic Development National Chairperson, Cde Dalubuhle Nzangane, said the donation will greatly assist the beneficiaries.
“As an organisation, we recognised that boys are equally vulnerable as girls and require our support. As the world observes Women’s Month, I believe that this donation will specifically assist the girl child, as we provided them with sanitary pads. This will enable them to participate fully in school and community activities, even during their menstrual period, without feeling uncomfortable or left behind.”
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South Provincial Youth Chairman, Cde Moses Langa, said the school was selected as part of efforts to empower underprivileged learners across the province.
“We have observed a decline in school performance in Matobo, and we are working to address this issue. Through partnerships such as this one with Visionary Youths for Economic Development, we can provide much-needed support to orphans and disadvantaged children.
“Our goal is to create a level playing field where every learner feels valued and has an equal opportunity to succeed.
We are committed to supporting our local communities and ensuring no child is left behind,” he said.
Cde Langa said the initiative, spearheaded by Visionary Youths for Economic Development, is expected to have a far-reaching impact across the country.
