By Bigboy Madzivanzira
Board Secretary, Isheanesu Centre
HARARE-Isheanesu Multipurpose Skills Training Centre for Children with Disabilities held a key Board Meeting today, 01 July 2026. The meeting was chaired by Mrs Florence Chitiyo and was honoured by the presence of our Patron, Mr Leonard Zhakata and his wife, who will assist if he is overwhelmed with work.
Honouring Our Founding Mothers
Mrs Chitiyo opened by hailing the Patron: “We thank Mr Zhakata for his support since Isheanesu was started by a group of mothers years back. Mothers used to take turns taking care of children with disabilities, giving each other relief to go to market. Mr Zhakata also fundraised for the building of the kitchen and supported this good cause.”
The General Manager’s Report: Two Programmes, One Vision
The General Manager outlined the Centre’s current situation to the Board:
“At the Centre we are running two major programmes,” the GM said.
“First, the Institutional Based Programme where children remain at the Centre to gain skills.
Second, the Community Based Rehabilitation [CBR] Programme, which is intended to take over children after they have gained skills so they can do projects at home.”
The GM noted the challenge: “Some parents are against the CBR idea, saying their children should remain here forever. They even resist other children benefiting from the Centre, considering it their personal organisation. The idea that we are now a registered PVO is not accepted by them.”
The GM further explained: “The CBR Programme has a Combi run by a different donor from the Institutional Programme. Some parents feel children should be ferried to different homes in the Combi.”
Child Safety: Our Immediate Priority
A serious concern was raised by Mrs Gladys Mutwira: the Centre operates without a durable perimeter wall, leaving children vulnerable and causing theft of crops from our project gardens.
The Board resolved that *Mr Mupingashato* will source quotations for a secure wall by the 3rd week of July 2026.
Leadership Message
Although he sent apologies, Board Chairperson Mr Langton Chidzvondo sent a progressive message to the Board: “Change is never easy, but it is necessary for growth. Let us build this wall, build trust with our parents, and build a stronger Isheanesu for every child.”
The Patron’s Counsel: Embrace the Circle
Mr Zhakata responded in a soft-spoken tone: “Despite all the challenges being said, I have seen with my own eyes that Isheanesu is growing. The Board and management must understand the effects of change. Identify the influential parents and embrace them. Work with them because there is no way we can do away with them – they are part of the circle.”
The Board Secretary agreed with the Patron: “As he rightly said, ‘At a scene of an accident, identify the most talkative person who disrupts the rescue team. Give him a task like moving people away or stopping cars at a distance. So embracing trouble-makers will cool the situation.’”
Mr Mupingashato also echoed that there is need for good public relations with parents.
Looking Ahead: Isheanesu Day 2026
The Board confirmed:
1. Board Meeting: 3rd Week of July 2026, to review wall quotations and parent engagement plans.
2. Isheanesu Day: 1st Week of October 2026 a community fundraising and celebration day with 3-4 artists.
Support the Wall Project
For any support towards building of the wall, please contact the General Manager on 0772 911 713.
Conclusion
Isheanesu is growing. As a registered PVO, we are stronger and able to help more children. No parent is being left behind. We are one circle, moving forward together.
About the Author
Bigboy Madzivanzira is the Board Secretary for Isheanesu Multipurpose Skills Training Centre for Children with Disabilities in Harare. He coordinates Board communications, parent engagement, and partnerships.
Contact: 0773 367 913