Story by Farai Gwaze
FAMILIES in Headlands today received life-changing mobility equipment from well-wishers, turning into reality a cerebral palsy survivor’s vision to empower children with disabilities, a milestone that aligns with Vision 2030’s inclusive healthcare goals.
At Headlands Clinic, parents were overjoyed as children with cerebral palsy used specialized equipment for the first time, liberating families from isolation and unlocking new independence. The equipment, which comprises wheelchairs, strollers for mobility, as well as corner seats to allow back support, was donated by the Panashe Nissi children’s trust.
“My child was born with cerebral palsy, and the help he has received today means he will now be able to sit down, and I am truly happy. Michael is six years old and was born with cerebral palsy. With the help he has received today, he will be able to eat on his own. Kupa had a challenge of not being able to sit and could only lie down. I am thankful for the wheelchair I have been given. I will now be able to travel with Kupa and will not leave my child at home as I used to do,” beneficiaries noted.
Clinic head Sister Linda Tinoda emphasised how the donation bridges critical gaps in rural healthcare infrastructure.
“Panashe Nissi Children’s Trust Fund has helped us immensely. We now have medicines, and the equipment they have brought today. I want to thank them for coming to this community in Headlands to help these children they identified,” she said.
For trust founder Panashe Sakutukwa, whose father’s London-to-Harare convoy inspired the initiative, this moment crowned years of advocacy.
“I feel so blessed and grateful to see the children getting the help they need to be able to walk and live their lives. It is so rewarding to see my dream and vision come to life. Providing them with frames, wheelchairs, corner seats, and to watch their mothers so grateful and blessed by this is the most amazing feeling,” Cerebral Palsy Survivor, Panashe Sakutukwa noted.
The initiative seeks to complement collective efforts in support of Vision 2030’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
