During our church council meeting, discussions on various church matters came to a standstill when the topic of our pledged donation to Tokwe Mukosi was raised. It was a heartfelt call to aid the victims downstream of the dam, now relocated to the Chingwizi camp. Amidst the deliberations, my mind couldn't help but dwell on the plight of the children affected by this disaster. I firmly believe that no child should suffer due to circumstances beyond their control.
Currently, approximately 1000 children in Tokwe Mukosi are unable to attend school as they await relocation to safer areas in Chivi. The government has promised to expedite the construction of schools, appealing for $20 million from the international community to mitigate the crisis. Local and international organizations, as well as individuals, have already provided aid to this drought-stricken region of Masvingo, which experienced unprecedented rainfall this year, leading to the dam's structural issues.
The children of Tokwe Mukosi deserve a secure home, adequate nutrition, access to healthcare, basic education, and protection from harm. They face heightened vulnerability, both from the disaster itself and the risk of being neglected by the world, potentially falling into poverty or engaging in illicit activities, especially given their proximity to Ngundu business center and South Africa. As a former teacher near Tokwe Mukosi Dam, I witnessed first hand how some schoolchildren migrated to South Africa, disrupting their education and moral upbringing.
Such a calamity leaves children with limited options, putting them at risk of engaging in harmful activities to support their families. Should we wait for international donors or affluent individuals to contribute the $20 million needed? Have we considered the daily needs of rural children for survival? During the liberation struggle, children in camps were cared for and educated by dedicated individuals. It's time for us, as a free nation, to step up and make a personal commitment to support at least one child in reaching their potential.
The selection criteria for aiding a child may vary, but what matters most is taking action to secure their future. It doesn't require the involvement of NGOs, wealthy individuals, or political figures—it simply takes the compassion and sacrifice of ordinary individuals. Most donations from developed countries come from ordinary citizens moved by the plight of those in need, like the children of Tokwe Mukosi.
Zimbabweans are renowned for their generosity and compassion, not only for foreigners but also for their fellow citizens. Let's not allow pride to overshadow our resilience in helping those in despair. Together, let's ensure every child in Tokwe Mukosi is embraced with friendship and support, leaving no child behind.
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