Help for disadvantaged communities in Zimbabwe as new trust is launched
BULAWAYO – ZDDT, represented by Field Correspondent Lewis Jones, was recently an honoured guest at the launch of Samrose Development Trust, a new Bulawayo based organisation, whose primary objective is to stimulate positive growth among disadvantaged communities in Zimbabwe.
Programmes Director at the new Trust, Mr. Lizwe Sibanda, alluded to the Organisation’s various initiatives, which have, he noted, a leaning towards creating linkages between such communities and relevant components within the business and social sectors.
He added that areas in which the Trust intends to establish a prominent presence include: HIV and AIDS, Child Care and Support, Advocacy and Research, Skills Training, as well as Finance and Administration.
Mr. Sibanda explained to the gathering, the method by which the Trust planned to interact with stakeholders.
One of Samrose Development Trust’s more ambitious projects in the near future, would be the procurement of a bank of 20 computers, to be set up at its Headquarters. The intention is to provide a range of IT services to residents in the City’s Wards, particularly school children, youths and women, who would normally be unable to have access to such facilities. The Organisation visualises working with Line Ministries and appropriate players found within the private sector and civic society.
Samrose Development Trust was founded 7 June, 2010, by Minister of Water Resources and Development, Hon. Samuel Sipepa Nkomo, MP, Lobengula, his wife Roseline and Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development, Hon. Jessie Majome, MP, Harare West. Hon. Majome is a former resident of Ward 14 in the Lobengula Township, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Home to the Trust is the former premises of Lobengula Women’s’ Club. The Club had been unable to adequately utilise this facility, due to viability challenges. Bulawayo City Council owns the property.
Presenting a solidarity speech at the occasion, Hon. Nkomo noted that it was important for communities to have ownership over the necessary means for the day to day running of their lives. He told listeners that his linkage with the community, through the Trust, meant that as Minister, when he articulates on matters related to service delivery, he would be drawing upon their experiences.
Hon. Majome urged residents to work for the welfare of their communities, particularly concerning assistance and care for the disadvantaged. “ You need to embrace the efforts of Samrose Trust and complement its endeavours to improve conditions in the local communities.” She added.
Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Amen Mpofu, Ward 2, Bulawayo, echoed the sentiments of Minister Nkomo and Deputy Minister Majome. He commended Samrose Development Trust for the noble intentions it demonstrated toward the well being of deprived residents of the City. Cllr. Mpofu expressed the hope that through effective partnership, the Trust’s work would complement the City’s endeavour to provide effective services to residents.
P. Z. Ndlovu, Councillor for Ward 14, Lobengula, the area where the launch was held and location of the Trust’s Head Office, gave welcoming and introductory remarks, while generally providing oversight for the proceedings.
Well known local civic activist, Roderick Fayayo, who also acted as Director of Ceremonies at the event, raised a laugh when in obvious reference to the fashionable move towards gender equality he mused, “Since we have City Fathers, would it now not be correct for us to have City Mothers as well?”
Refreshments were served at the Programme’s conclusion and entertainment was provided by Mehlo Arts Academy, which has its base at the Lobengula Youth Centre.
Lewis Jones (left) with with Samrose Trust Founders, (left to right) Hon. J Majome, Hon. S.Nkomo and Executive Director L.Sibanda.