Yesterday, celebrations erupted in Zvishavane as First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa launched the Midlands chapter of the First Lady’s Widows Association. This initiative aims to empower widows by providing them with essential goods to kickstart income-generating projects, enhancing their livelihoods and promoting dignity.
The First Lady presented a consignment that included pushcarts, food items, and other essentials to support widows across eight districts. These goods are intended to help them start businesses and provide for their families. With this launch, the Midlands becomes the ninth province to benefit from the empowerment program.
Dr. Mnangagwa held an interactive session with the widows, emphasizing the importance of hard work, self-respect, and addressing long-standing tensions between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law. Elections were also conducted to form committees responsible for overseeing the new income-generating projects, ensuring sustainability and success.
During the meeting, the First Lady addressed the stigmas faced by widows in their communities, where they are often labeled negatively. She encouraged them to rise above these challenges and focus on their potential for success.
Dr. Mnangagwa highlighted her commitment to uplifting widows by sharing her own experiences with similar initiatives, such as the mukando project, which has already transformed many lives. She urged the widows to work together, emphasizing that their efforts would attract more support from partners.
The First Lady also imparted lessons on financial discipline, urging the newly elected committee members to manage the projects responsibly. She reinforced the need for honesty and hard work, stating that the success of these initiatives could pave the way for further assistance.
Chaplain Christine Phiri and Evangelist Nelly Gwatidzo echoed Dr. Mnangagwa’s sentiments, encouraging widows to embrace their circumstances and work diligently for their families. They highlighted the importance of hygiene and health, with the First Lady’s mobile clinics providing free screenings for various diseases.
Mrs. Idha Manokore and Mrs. Pretty Chinzou expressed their gratitude for the First Lady’s support, acknowledging the significant change this initiative brings to their lives. The First Lady’s efforts have reignited hope among widows, inspiring them to work hard and build a better future for themselves and their families.
Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube praised the First Lady for her commitment to various welfare programs, emphasizing the positive impact of her initiatives on the community. Overall, the event marked a significant step toward empowering widows in Zimbabwe, fostering a spirit of collaboration and resilience among them.
Add comment