04 May 2020

Zimbabwe Association in Botswana has rescued Zimbabweans residing in Maun who need food hampers.

Out of 120 assessed households, about 25 families benefited while the other 14 would be assisted in due course.
 
The association co-chairperson, Mr Cosmast Bvunzani, said they received calls from individuals who reported that their countrymen were starving as a result of COVID-19 pandemic, hence the assistance.

He explained that most of their countrymen came to Botswana to do some temporary jobs, some were employed permanently, but their companies had been affected by the pandemic and lost their jobs while some were visiting and were locked here.

Mr Bvunzani said some were assessed and registered under the COVID-19 social relief programme in the North West District Council (NWDC) but they did not receive assistance.

“We sourced donations from our members and our partners here in Botswana and we managed to raise funds to assist those in need. We have also agreed to donate P3 500 to the council to augment their efforts towards assisting the community,” he added.

Mr Bvunzani said some members of the association had also pledged their vehicles to assist the council in distribution of food packages.

The association, he said, would continue to assist their fellow countrymen iuntil the pandemic situation stabilises.

Most members of the association were reported to be businessmen and Mr Bvunzani revealed that they had also incorporated some Batswana who showed interest in the association.

For his part, Boseja South area councillor, Mr Itumeleng Kelebetseng hailed the association for cushioning those in need during difficult times.

He appreciated that although some felt the pinch of COVID-19, they saw it fit to assist where possible and encouraged them to keep up the spirit.

Cllr Kelebetseng also noted that the association had laid a solid foundation in his area, noting that they had a lot of community activities such as construction of toilets for the needy in society.

In addition, Mr Kelebetseng said the association restored dignity of many through their noble gesture. Ends