Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of the elderly through targeted social protection initiatives, with three old people’s homes in Masvingo receiving a significant boost in the form of blankets, grain, and rice.
The donation, made in partnership with the Central Mechanical and Equipment Department (CMED), benefitted Mucheke Old People’s Home among others, with residents and caretakers expressing gratitude for the gesture.
“We are happy today that the government continues to remember us, and this gesture reminds us that we are not alone, rather, there are a lot of people who care about us,” one obeneficiary noted.
“We continue to receive support from the government as an institution, and these blankets and food items will go a long way in improving the welfare of our elderly here,” one of the elderly caretakers said.
Handing over the donation, Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honorable Ezra Chadzamira, said the gesture is inspired by the First Lady’s philanthropic work and the government’s commitment to support the welfare of senior citizens, while for CMED, it is part of their corporate social responsibility.
“As the government, we must ensure decent living conditions for our elderly, and this donation is also inspired by our First Lady, Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa, who has become a beacon of compassion through her philanthropic work,” he noted.
“This initiative is part of our efforts to give back to the community we serve. We hope to continue with such initiatives so that we serve many people,” Masvingo Regional, Central Mechanical and Equipment Department Manager, Mr Pepukai Zimudzi added.
The gesture forms part of the broader drive by the government to improve living conditions in welfare institutions across the country.
