Robbery, rape victim assisted by Bulawayo business


Bulawayo, Zimbabwe:
In an environment where deeds of insensitivity and brutality have become common occurrences, and where human dignity is often callously trodden upon; it is with a profound sense of appreciation that one views acts of kindness, which briefly sparkle through the murky evil.

During a deeply moving hand-over ceremony, at the ZDDT’s office in Bulawayo’s CBD, Ms. Fian Gombe, received a cash donation from Mr. Bruce Mtengwa the organisation’s Provincial Development Officer (PDO).

The gift ensues from an initiative by the Trust, called the Business Social Credit Scheme (BSCS), a fund into which businesses are encouraged to contribute cash as a means toward alleviating poverty in local communities. Through it, any Councillor with the assistance of his or her CAT, may single out a very needy person in their ward, who then becomes a beneficiary of the fund.

Ms Gombe, who comes from Swazi Growth Point, Mzingwane District, in Matebeleland South, is the victim of a robbery and rape incident which recently occurred in Bulawayo’s Bradfield suburb. She was recommended by Cllr. Edward Manning, Ward1, as a beneficiary of the BSCS fund.

The 27 year old mother of 2 children, recounted the harrowing experience she had at the hands of a young armed male, who robbed her of all her personal belongings, including a substantial amount of cash, before raping her.

Speaking in isiNdebele, at the ceremony’s conclusion, Ms. Gombe said “This act of kindness by ZDDT and the local business community, has restored my faith in people, and gives me the courage to go on with the task of living my life.”