Ayesha Nyanzunda
HARARE — What began as a simple online message has blossomed into a historic moment for Zimbabwe’s disability community. Tendai Mazuru, founder of the Tendai Mazuru Foundation, initially reached out to Minister Tino Machakaire online, seeking ways to improve access and opportunities for persons with disabilities.
That conversation later evolved into a meaningful discussion with Minister Machakaire, mediated by DJ Ollah 7 on the Ollah 7 Podcast, bringing together key voices from the disability community to highlight their challenges and aspirations.Link to the show:
The result of these conversations culminated today in a symbolic and practical gesture of inclusion at State House, where President Emmerson Mnangagwa handed over brand-new Mahindra vehicles and wheelchairs to a group of Zimbabweans with disabilities. Among the beneficiaries were notable musicians Tongai ‘Greatman’ Gwaze and Chipo Muchegwa, illustrating the government’s recognition of contributions made by persons with disabilities across all spheres of society.
The handover ceremony saw five young Zimbabweans from diverse professional backgrounds receive Mahindra trucks, tools intended to enhance their mobility, independence, and ability to work. In addition, each recipient received ten wheelchairs, totaling fifty, which they will distribute within their communities, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and accessibility.
Recipients of the President’s donation.
Recipients included not only Greatman and Chipo Muchegwa, but also Hazel Mandaza, an entrepreneur and member of the Zimbabwe Youth Council; Bulawayo-based beautician Michelle Madawu; and Tendai Mazuru himself.
Addressing the gathering, President Mnangagwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to disability inclusion:
“Wese anenge achida kubatsirwa tiripo sehurumende. Kusava nemumwe anovanda ngavawuye.”
(“Anyone who needs assistance — we, as government — are here. Let no one hide; let them come.”)
This donation forms part of the broader disability-inclusion framework under the Second Republic, reflecting repeated pledges to mainstream disability concerns in national development efforts.
The response on social media and in communities has been overwhelmingly positive, with many lauding the donation as a meaningful step toward practical empowerment, dignity, and inclusion for Zimbabweans with disabilities. What started as a conversation online has now become a real-world example of how dialogue, advocacy, and collaboration can drive tangible change.
