Online Reporter
Arts Reporter
It is true when they say Christmas comes once a year.
This sentiment resonates deeply with the Gokwe community, as beloved gospel musician Reverend Togarirepi Chivaviro has brought joy this festive season by gifting them food hampers and groceries.
This generous act serves as both a Christmas gesture and part of his early celebrations for his upcoming 50th birthday.
Chivaviro, who currently resides in the United Kingdom, has long been committed to uplifting his home district.
Recently, he reached out to his fans, asking for their support in raising funds or donating essential items for the underprivileged in Gokwe.
“Every year, I identify a needy area, and my team of fans and followers join me in raising something to give back to the community,” he explained. This year, his focus was on a place that holds immense significance for him: the Children’s Ward at Gokwe Hospital.
The decision to support the Children’s Ward is not merely a charitable act for Chivaviro; it is a deeply personal journey.
“I owe my life to Gokwe Hospital. It was used by God to save my life during my childhood,” he shared, reflecting on his experiences.
He recalled multiple hospital visits throughout his primary school years, where he faced numerous health challenges, including a surgical operation that nearly claimed his life.
“Nobody gave me a chance to survive, but God being God, that hospital came in handy each of those times,” he recalled, emphasizing the profound impact the hospital has had on his life.
Chivaviro’s connection to the hospital motivated him to make a difference for the children who might be spending Christmas away from their families.
“I thought of the children in the ward who could not be with their loved ones at Christmas and decided to give them a little cheer, a little smile just to make a difference,” he stated.
His actions reflect a heartfelt desire to bring joy to those in difficult circumstances.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.
Chivaviro expressed his gratitude to the hospital officials and the nursing staff for granting him permission to carry out this initiative. “I appreciate the hospital officials and the entire nursing team for allowing us to do what has been on my heart for long,” he said.
His brother, Machaya Chivaviro, and sister, Ropafadzo Gondo, played essential roles in representing him at the hospital, ensuring the success of the event.
The joy of the children and their parents was evident during the distribution of hampers.
“The kids were happy, and so were their parents,” he noted, highlighting the emotional impact of the occasion. The smiles on their faces were a testament to the difference a little kindness can make during the holiday season. Chivaviro is not stopping here.
He plans to engage with the hospital authorities to adopt the Children’s Ward, aiming to provide ongoing support and resources for its upkeep.
“I want to continue supporting the ward and get more resources for it,” he asserted. As he prepares to celebrate his 50th birthday, Chivaviro’s music family is organising various celebratory activities across the globe, including in the UK, Zimbabwe, South Africa, the US, and Australia.
His dedication to giving back is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and gratitude, especially during the festive season.
Through his actions, Rev Chivaviro embodies the spirit of Christmas, proving that true joy comes from giving and uplifting those around us.
leeroy mupariri
