Peter Matika, peter.matika@chronicle.co.zw
IN a heart-warming gesture just in time for the festive season, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, through his Mthuli Ncube Foundation, on Saturday donated food hampers to families in Bulawayo and Matobo District.
The initiative, aimed at easing the financial burden on struggling households, brought smiles and relief to many ahead of Christmas.
In Bulawayo, Prof Ncube distributed food hampers to families in Mzilikazi suburb, saying the aim was to support vulnerable families.
“This is a time for giving and we want to ensure that no family goes without food this Christmas,” he said while handing out the food parcels.
The families received mealie-meal, cooking oil, beans and personal care products.
Many expressed appreciation for the timely support, which comes at a time when economic challenges have made it difficult for many families to afford basic necessities.
In Matobo District, Minister Ncube donated 1 000 bags of mealie-meal.
He stressed the importance of community solidarity and urged people to assist each other during challenging times.
Villagers were not only thankful for the donations but also praised Prof Ncube for taking the time to connect with them personally.
“It is nice and reassuring to see our leaders come down to our level and show they care,” one villager said.
Last month, Mthuli Ncube Foundation, in partnership with Tzu Chi Zimbabwe, a non-governmental organisation donated 10 000 tonnes of rice to Cowdray Park residents. As part of his contribution to the development of the suburb, which he wants to transform into a modern and vibrant urban centre, Prof Ncube pledged to install WiFi at Cowdray Park Secondary School as well as donate books to its library.