Shelton gets a feel of his Cerebral Palsy Wheelchair, whilst ZPCS Commissioner General, Dr Moses Chihobvu, his mother Maria Magedhi (foreground) and other officials look on
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Since its inception in 2011, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner General’s Goodwill Trust Fund has supported over 400 orphans and disadvantaged children, helping them reach their full potential. Of these, 269 have successfully completed their education, and currently, 150 orphans are benefiting from scholarships across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
This was revealed by the ZPCS Commissioner General, Dr. Moses Chihobvu, on Friday, during a handover ceremony of medical supplies and groceries, part of the Commissioner General’s Goodwill Trust Fund initiative. Dr. Chihobvu, who is also the Patron of the Trust Fund, described the ceremony as a milestone in their ongoing mission to support widows, widowers, orphans of deceased Correctional Officers, and other disadvantaged community members.
Among the items donated were two wheelchairs, one each for Chikurubi and Khami Staff Hospitals, a cerebral palsy (CP) wheelchair, four stretcher beds (two for each hospital), as well as sunscreen lotions and lip balm for Prison Officers and other community members living with albinism. Additionally, groceries were provided to a ZPCS member whose home was recently destroyed by fire.
“We take pride in our achievements in assisting pupils and students, as well as reaching out to disadvantaged members of our communities, significantly contributing to the fulfillment of their God-given purposes in life,” said Commissioner General Chihobvu.
He continued, “Many of you may know that the Commissioner General’s Goodwill Trust Fund was established in 2011, recognizing the hardships faced by the children and spouses of Correctional Officers after their loved ones’ untimely demise or incapacitation. Tragically, many children have been unable to continue their education, with some resorting to begging or, worse, early child marriages to escape poverty. Boys and girls, too, have turned to drugs and substance abuse to cope with their harsh realities. These actions destroy lives and jeopardize the future of an entire generation.”
Dr. Chihobvu noted that the Trust Fund’s success results from the hard work, resilience, and commitment of the ZPCS and its stakeholders. He highlighted the significance of the recent donations, especially for individuals with albinism. “I understand that sunscreen lotions can be costly, so this contribution will significantly help our vulnerable communities in protecting themselves against skin cancers,” he said. He also expressed hope that the support for APCO Dzambacheka and his family would ease the impact of their recent loss.
The Commissioner General emphasized the Fund’s commitment to supporting people living with disabilities, including amputees, by providing artificial limbs and ankle-foot orthoses to improve their quality of life. “The Fund is committed to assisting people living with disability, ensuring they enjoy the same freedoms as others in society,” he said.
He reiterated the Fund’s dedication to the welfare of officers’ dependents and other vulnerable community members. “Today’s handover of medical equipment and supplies underscores our commitment to improving the quality of life for our beneficiaries and enhancing the healthcare system within the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, as outlined in the National Health Strategy (2021-2025). This strategy represents a concerted effort by the government of Zimbabwe to improve the health and wellness of our population.”
Dr. Chihobvu also mentioned plans to reduce donor dependence by launching income-generating projects. “In that regard, we have partnered with a private investor to establish the Chikurubi Damview Events Garden, which is rapidly gaining popularity. Ongoing improvements include plans for a conference centre, chalets, and additional infrastructure. Revenue generated from the Fund’s initiatives has been instrumental in funding various programs. I encourage the officers managing the Fund to develop more relevant initiatives to broaden our reach to more beneficiaries.”
He thanked all officers and stakeholders who have supported fundraising efforts, including events like the Half Marathon, Golf Tournament, and Horse Race. “This handover ceremony exemplifies how strategic partnerships can drive sustainable improvements in the welfare of our officers, their dependents, and the healthcare delivery system as a whole. The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service cannot operate in isolation. I call upon the private sector to partner with the Commissioner-General’s Goodwill Trust Fund to mobilize resources for disadvantaged communities.”
Dr. Chihobvu concluded with gratitude: “Lastly, I extend my gratitude to the Welfare section, the Board of Trustees, and all officers who contributed to making today’s event a success. With unity, teamwork, and a shared desire to achieve greatness, we can fulfill our vision of becoming the best correctional service provider in the region and beyond.”
a Correctional Officer receives her supplies from Commissioner General Dr Chihobvu
Edgar Makore, a board member of the Commissioner General Trust Fund representing the Chairperson Farai Rwodzi, also emphasized the Fund’s purpose. “This Goodwill Fund has assisted many beneficiaries and officers when the need arises. Funds are raised by the Commissioner General’s Fund, with support from the corporate world. I appeal to the corporate world to donate generously to this noble cause initiated by the Commissioner General himself.”
For the beneficiaries, the event brought smiles and joy as they received the much-needed donations.
