Revd J. Paradza
As she stood before the crowd Mai Matinenga’s eyes welled up with tears. She had never imagined that her family’s life would be transformed like this.
Living in the rural area of Mhondoro in Ward 3 of Jonhera Village under headman Murombedzi and councillor Sibanda mai Matinenga never thought that her plight will be noticed. Her children a boy (21) and a girl (19) are both with disabilities. For more than twenty years she has endured taking care of them alone. Indeed, their journey has been tough characterized by loneliness and despair. The receiving of two wheelchairs made her feel seen, heard, and celebrated.
The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe has reached out through the Safeguarding, Gender and Inclusion office offering support and inclusion. The community had rallied around too, present and in support was the headman and councillor showing solidarity.
Mai Matinenga’s voice trembled as she spoke, “I thought we’d be alone in this struggle, but the church, our community… you’ve shown us love and acceptance, Thank you! “Today I feel like a huge stone has been taken off me.”
The church leadership the circuit superintendent Revd Peter Chipoka and the local church stewards beamed with pride as they witness the gospel in praxis. For the Headman, Mr Murombedzi the act demonstrated a possibility of collaboration between the church and community leadership for a transformed community. “There is need for continued cooperation and support of persons with disabilities, more awareness raising programming to enable a change of attitude and behaviour towards disability. “Imhosva kuviga mwana/ hama ine urema, Ngavabuditswe pachena vanhu ava kuti vabarike”
The MCZ remains resolute in ensuring creation of safe, inclusive and resilient communities. Great appreciation goes to individuals and companies who donate cash as well as wheelchairs and walkers for persons with disabilities. Together we can build safe and inclusive communities.
#SayNoToDisabilityExclusion
#BuildingDisabilityInclusive
Call on 0773574341 for donations or on our Toll free numbers 08980551/08080553
By Revd J. Paradza (Safeguarding and Gender Officer)
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