A Timely Lifeline: ZDDT–Chematek Social Credit Scheme Brings Relief to Struggling Households

The Zimbabwe Development and Democracy Trust (ZDDT), in partnership with Chematek Lubricants, has extended timely humanitarian support to vulnerable households in Kingsdale and Mzilikazi through its Business Social Credit Scheme, bringing relief and renewed hope to families facing acute hardship.

In Kingsdale, the intervention reached Mrs Pretty Van Heerden (below), who is caring for a newborn tragically left motherless shortly after birth.

The assistance, provided in the form of cash support, enabled her to urgently secure infant formula and nappies, ensuring the baby’s immediate nutritional and hygiene needs are met during this critical and emotionally difficult period.

“This will go a long way in providing nutritious milk for this frail baby who has just lost his mother. Thank you Chematek and ZDDT for your kindness,” said Mrs Van Heerden.

In Mzilikazi, the same initiative supported Dorcas Sibanda (below) an elderly, unemployed woman who is the sole caregiver to her unemployed adult son living with mental challenges, as well as her grandchildren. The household received US$50 to purchase food, easing the daily burden of hunger and providing short-term stability to a family living at the margins.

This intervention underscores ZDDT and Chematek’s shared commitment to compassionate, people-centred development, using social credit mechanisms, not only to cushion the most vulnerable against shocks, but also to restore dignity and reinforce community solidarity in times of crisis.