By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 13 December 2025 – Mutare Central Member of Parliament Brian James handed over Christmas grocery parcels to two disability-focused charities yesterday, framing the gesture as a personal pledge to bring seasonal comfort to the vulnerable.
“Each Christmas time I try and put a little comfort into the homes of the more needy,” James told The Wasu Post. “Last year we helped the elderly in this way.”
The MP acknowledged the scale of the need but stressed the importance of the act. “Probably not a major impact but the point is they are recognized and not forgotten,” he said.
He added that he uses his parliamentary position to advocate for people with disabilities. “I try to highlight the challenges by using my position in Parliament, little as it might be,” James said.
For the foundations, the donation carries transformative potential beyond the immediate food supplies.
“The donation is a game changer for our programmes,” said Tendai Mazuru of her eponymous foundation. She explained that the funds will be used to purchase a reliable vehicle, cover maintenance and expand outreach.
“It enables us to reach remote areas that were previously inaccessible, increasing the number of individuals we can serve,” Mazuru stated, outlining how it solves critical gaps in transportation and operational costs.
He directly addressed supporters, saying, “To our generous donors: thank you for turning our vision into reality. Your support gives mobility, dignity and hope to persons with special needs.”
Nicholas Marange, Director of the Youth Development Initiative Trust (YDIT), confirmed the details of the handover. “We are to distribute the items on Monday,” Marange said. “Got 47 sets of 10kg mealie meal, 2kg sugar, 1 bar green soap and 2l cooking oil.”
He emphasized how such direct support bolsters their work. “Getting unsolicited funds strengthens our ability to reach these groups without relying on donor funding,” Marange explained.
He also pointed to the persistent financial hurdles in inclusive programming. “Supporting PWDs has various financial inclusivity aspects that need more money. We often lack resources to meet these inclusivity aspects.”
Looking ahead, Marange expressed a desire for sustained collaboration. “YDIT hopes to see ongoing partnerships with community leaders, local government institutions and media houses to create sustainable support initiatives,” he said.
The event highlights ongoing efforts to address the needs of people with disabilities in Zimbabwe during the festive season, blending immediate relief with longer-term logistical support.