By Flata Kavinga
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube has commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for what he described as prioritising social protection within the country’s broader development agenda.
Ncube made the remarks during the handover of groceries, blankets and goats to Rugare Old People’s Home and Mary Ward Children’s Home in Amaveni, Kwekwe.
The donations were sourced from proceeds of the 2026 Midlands Provincial Independence Ball.
Speaking in Amaveni, Ncube said the government’s social protection initiatives were benefiting vulnerable members of society, including the elderly and children.
“Allow me to express my profound gratitude to His Excellency, the President, Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, for spearheading and fusing social protection in the New Dispensation’s broader development matrix,” he said.
According to Ncube, the approach had contributed to development projects in sectors such as health, transport, energy, housing and investment.
The minister said the donations formed part of efforts to strengthen social safety nets for vulnerable groups in line with government policies on social welfare.
The items handed over included mealie meal, cooking oil, sugar, rice, tea leaves, salt, green bar soap, blankets and a goat for each institution.
Ncube said the donations were made possible through support from the private sector, business community and individual donors who contributed during the 2026 Midlands Independence Ball fundraising dinner.
“This occasion has been made possible courtesy of commendable support from the private sector, business community and individuals during our 2026 Independence Ball fundraising dinner which mobilised US$60,000 towards charity,” he said.
The minister urged stakeholders to continue supporting charitable initiatives that promote the welfare of vulnerable members of society.
The handover ceremony was attended by government officials, representatives of the two institutions, members of the business community and local residents.
The 2026 Midlands Provincial Independence Ball raised more than US$60,000, with proceeds earmarked for charitable causes across the province.
