ZDDT helps empower HIV/AIDS Support Group

Written by Lewis Jones - ZDDT Field Correspondent Friday, 12 March 2010 13:34

Groups’ first contract was Bulawayo deputy mayor.


BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe:

To most City Residents the suburb known as Rowena, is an insignificant piece of real estate set 6 kilometres north of the main post office in Bulawayo. It is in this little lower to middle working class community, covering an area no less than 6 streets either way, that Councillor Amen Mpofu (Ward 2), Deputy Mayor of Bulawayo resides.

The bungalow where he lives is modest yet neat and sits in well looked after grounds. Imposing in stature, he exudes an air of command and self assurance, and it does not take long for one to discover that he is a also a man of integrity bursting with energy to be of service to residents in the city, be they from his ward or not.

On Friday 12 February, 2010 this correspondent had the opportunity to observe these positive aspects about this remarkable man. The ZDDT Team had visited his home, to present the Ward 2 HIV/AIDS Support Group with a power lawn mower for their grass cutting project.

Under this scheme which is funded by HELP Germany, Ward leaders select a group of people in their area, who are affected by HIV/AIDS and assist them to get grass cutting contracts with Businesses, Institutions or domestic establishments close by. Proceeds from these activities are shared among those who had done the work and goes towards assisting in the alleviation of poverty among them.

The groups’ first contract was with none other than Councillor Mpofu himself. Trust personnel were fortunate to witness the start of this exercise, which took place just outside his front perimeter wall.

When asked why he was prepared to part with the substantial sum being asked for by the work team, Councillor Mpofu said, “It´s always good for leaders to motivate their residents by setting positive examples. By being able to assist disadvantaged people in this way one finds immense gratification that in the long run it is the community which benefits.” Indeed, a perfect example of the old saying that “Charity begins at home.”