A community initiative in Insiza North, Matabeleland South, recently marked its fourth anniversary with a fundraising event that also showcased local empowerment projects and a drive for self-reliance.
Hundreds of residents gathered at Milford Sibanda’s homestead in Phuthuma Village for the celebration, which drew political and traditional leaders, government officials, and community representatives.
Ward 23 shadow councillor Sikhanyisiwe Nkomo, pledged US$300 and five goats to Zibuthe while launching a fish farming project for the ward.
She handed over US$100 toward purchasing fingerlings and pledged an additional US$1 000 to Ward 20 leaders, to be delivered in September.
She urged residents to allow the goats to multiply before using them for funeral provisions.
Founded in August 2022 by elders Denis Ndiweni, Acknola Siziba, and the late Colvin Moyo, Zibuthe goes beyond traditional funeral cover.
Ndiweni said the organisation promotes unity and provides financial assistance, operating under a clear constitution with an administrative and advisory committee.
Members who pay subscriptions can borrow from the fund and repay with 20% interest.
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Over four years, Zibuthe has assisted more than 10 families with funeral arrangements in areas including Karoi, Rusape, and Gokwe.
Ward 20 councillor Ruzive Zhou praised Nkomo for backing multiple projects, including piggery, poultry, livestock initiatives, auger machines, and mushroom farming.
Khuluma Usenza projects coordinator Jacob Vaka Nyoni thanked Nkomo for providing a motorbike that enables him to train mushroom farmers across Insiza North and South.
Nyoni said mushroom farming can boost household incomes and reduce poverty.
Nkomo also handed over four soccer balls to youths after a request by local commissar Nkululeko Nyoni at a recent mine opening.
She said uniform kits had been ordered and urged youths to engage in sport and income-generating projects to combat drug abuse.
“Protect and expand the empowerment projects already established in this ward,” Nkomo encouraged residents, adding that she was inspired by Nyoni’s dedication to advancing Vision 2030.
