Story by Justin Mahlahla
The Chinese embassy in Zimbabwe has come to the aid of school children affected by the Mbare Musika inferno through a donation in the form of school fees and stationery.
Speaking during the ‘Hope Harbor’ Humanitarian Aid event this Friday, Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Zhou Ding paid tribute to the “hardworking and persevering people of Mbare who are recovering from the misery caused by the inferno one month ago”.
“I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to the relevant government agencies, community leaders and volunteers, and in particular, the Teen Rescue Mission for helping to put together today’s heartwarming event. The Mbare Musika has long been a symbol of resilience and entrepreneurship. It is with great sorrow that I learn a devastating fire has destroyed the Mbare Musika last month, leaving thousands of traders in despair with losses amounting to millions of dollars, which resulted in H.E. President ED Mnangagwa declaring this devastating fire a state of disaster.,” he said.
Ambassador Ding added, “A friend in need is a friend indeed. My colleagues and I share the sorrow of our brothers and sisters here. To compliment the government’s efforts for a speedy recovery of livelihoods, our embassy decided to support the schoolchildren from most affected families in Mbare with school fees and stationeries, to ensure that the schoolchildren here are able to continue the education that they deserve, without being bothered by the hardship caused by the sad incident. 
“These children are the future of Zimbabwe and the torchbearers of our dreams and aspirations. They will soon take on the responsibilities of adulthood to give back to society and make contribution to Zimbabwe’s economic and social progress. This is why we are here and why we work with TRM to start this programme.”
He also chronicled the long-standing friendship between Zimbabwe and China, which saw China fight side by side with Zimbabwe for its national liberation and independence.
“Since then, the friendship between our two countries has withstood the test of time. As Zimbabwe’s all-weather friend, China has not only supported Zimbabwe with airports, power stations, the sports stadium and the Parliament building, but also schools, hospitals, boreholes and food assistance, etc. to improve the well-being of the vulnerable communities and the disadvantaged people,” Ambassador Ding said.
He narrated how the Chinese embassy has also worked diligently with their Zimbabwean partners to empower the youth and children.
“I am extremely proud that over the years, our partnership with the government, local communities, and civil society organizations such as the TRM, has resulted in many fruitful outcomes that benefit local communities. It’s encouraging to see that our joint efforts have brought hope to numerous families including those present here in Mbare. I sincerely hope that the affected families and the children are empowered by the love and assistance given to them. I also hope that not long after, the Mbare Musika will revive its former prosperity. My colleagues and I will cheer you on , and be ready to celebrate your achievements,” he added.
The event was attended by Hon. Charles Tavengwa, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Harare Metropolitan Province; Mr. S. Jengwa, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training; Mr. Chimboza, representative of Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Small Medium Enterprise Development; Mr. Abraham Matuka, Director of the Teen Rescue Mission; Zimbabwe Youth Council senior executives as well as parents from affected families in Mbare.
