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Amos Mpofu [email protected]

ON the second Monday of November each year, the world comes together to mark World Orphans Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of orphaned children.

In celebration of this important day, the Uyanaka Trust, a Non-Profit Organisation founded in 2019, hosted two significant commemorations in Zimbabwe.
The first took place at Solusi University on the outskirts of Bulawayo, while the second event was hosted at Gogo Chiware’s Homestead in Ruwa, Harare, yesterday.

At Solusi University, the event focused on providing tangible support to 12 underprivileged orphans from Solusi Primary School. The Uyanaka Trust donated essential items including stationery, school uniforms, food hampers, and contributed towards school fees.

These gifts aimed to alleviate some of the daily challenges faced by the children, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed academically and live healthy, fulfilling lives.

The theme for this year’s World Orphans Day was “Orphans’ Lives Matter”, a powerful message that resonated deeply with those in attendance.

The Dean of Women at Solusi University, Mrs Ephina Chimanga, who was the guest of honour for the occasion echoed the Uyanaka Trust’s commitment to this cause.

In her address, Mrs Chimanga highlighted the gravity of the issue at hand saying “Today, we gather to honour and bring attention to a pressing issue that affects millions of children around the globe. Tragically, countless children have become orphaned due to accidents, famine, displacement, diseases, and poverty. These circumstances strip them not only of their parents but also of the love, security, and opportunities that every child deserves.”

She further emphasised the importance of World Orphans Day as a reminder that orphans must not be forgotten, and that their needs should be met with compassion and action.

“The theme for today is ‘Orphans’ Lives Matter.’ This powerful statement emphasises the importance of recognising the humanity and potential of every child, regardless of their circumstances. It reminds us that every orphaned child has dreams, hopes, and the right to a future filled with love and opportunity,” said Mrs Chimanga.

Mrs Chimanga concluded her speech with a call to action, urging everyone present to make a difference.

“Let us commit ourselves to not only acknowledge their struggles but also to actively work towards solutions that uplift and empower these children. By coming together as a community, we can make a significant impact in their lives. Together, we can ensure that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and their potential is unleashed.”

In an interview the Trust’s founder, Mrs Yvonne Duduzile Ndiweni, spoke passionately about the organisation’s mission and vision.

“Uyanaka Trust was established to provide a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Our organisation works closely with community volunteers and local partners to create impactful programs that address the needs of these children, such as combating poverty, improving education, and offering emotional support.”

She outlined the primary goals of Uyanaka Trust, which include raising awareness about the challenges orphans face, empowering children through education, and fostering community involvement. “Our programs focus on empowering children through education and skills training, helping them to build a brighter future,” Mrs Ndiweni said. “We aim to unleash the infinite potential in every child, ensuring they have the resources and support to succeed, despite their difficult circumstances.”

She said since its inception, the organisation has helped over 80 children across Bulilima District, Mazowe District, and Harare, providing essential support such as school fees, food, uniforms, and healthcare.

Every term, the Trust pays school fees for children at Solusi Primary School and Mazowe District, ensuring that these children can continue their education without interruptions.

In addition to educational support, Uyanaka Trust is also committed to addressing the nutritional needs of the children it supports. The organisation provides regular food donations to ensure the children receive proper nourishment, which is crucial for their academic success and overall well-being.

Another significant area of focus for the Trust is mental health support. Many orphaned children face emotional trauma due to the loss of their parents and the difficult circumstances they endure. To address this, Uyanaka Trust is working to implement counselling and therapy services, helping children deal with their grief and emotional challenges.

Mrs Ndiweni explained that, in the future, Uyanaka Trust plans to explore partnerships with local businesses to create sustainable income-generating projects that will support its ongoing programmes. “We are committed to building a network of support for orphans that goes beyond temporary assistance. Our goal is to create long-term solutions that empower children and families in the communities we serve.”

At the Solusi University event, Mrs Beauty Sibanda, a representative of Uyanaka Trust, assured the children that they are valued and their dreams matter. “Children, today is about you. You are at the heart of everything we do. Each one of you brings something beautiful and unique to the world, and you remind us of the power of resilience, strength, and hope. You are our future, our leaders, and the bright light that guides us forward,” she said.

Mrs Sibanda reinforced the Trust’s commitment to supporting the orphans, saying, “We are here to celebrate you, to remind you that you are not alone, and that there are many people who believe in you and want to support you in achieving your dreams.”