By Bigboy Madzivanzira
Harare — Children with disabilities graduated in Daily Living Skills at Mukuvisi Woodlands on the 10th of August 2026, in a colourful ceremony hosted by Tinovimbanashe Centre.
Officially opening the ceremony, Mrs Florence Kabayadondo emphasized that children with special needs have a lot of potential that people deemed able might not recognise, and called on parents and the community to nurture their talents rather than hide them.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Tsitsi Tawomhera MP, who was represented by Mr Andy Simango, graced the occasion together with Advocate Tapiwa Tsikai, the City of Harare Social Services Department led by Mr Kingston Machini, and other stakeholders.
Mr Langton Chidzvondo, Chairperson of Isheanesu Multipurpose Skills Training Centre for Children with Disabilities, was represented by his Secretary, Mr Bigboy Madzivanzira, who delivered a solidarity message.
In his speech, Madzivanzira said: “Vana vedu havana kuuya kuti vave tikiti remupiro — Our children did not come to be tickets for donations.” He challenged parents to train their children daily at home and not to see them as a means to attract donor aid.
Advocate Tsikai called on Hon. Tawomhera to lobby Parliament for a National Disability Fund to support grassroots organisations like Tinovimbanashe.
Motivational speaker Mr Kadengu, a man with a disability, moved the crowd when he said:
“I was fortunate my father did not run away from me. My family supported me. I turned criticism at school into fuel for courage.”
The organisers thanked all partners, including the Guest of Honour, City of Harare, Mukuvisi Woodlands, Nyaradzo Sahwira Mukuru, parents and service providers for making the graduation a success.
Tinobonga. Tinotenda. God bless you all.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a Medical Rehabilitation Practitioner (MRPCZ), Health Promotion Practitioner (AHPCZ), Family Therapist and Freelance Journalist (ZMC). He is Founder and Director of Health Promotion Clinic Trust and CAN Africa Network Zimbabwe Representative. Contact: 0773 367 913 / healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com