WHAT was expected to bring festive cheer to the elderly, orphans and new mothers in Chinhoyi failed to materialise this Christmas after council delayed the distribution of the Mayor’s Cheer Fund, citing internal system failure.
The cheer fund, launched in November and traditionally disbursed on Christmas Day, did not reach intended beneficiaries at old people’s homes, orphanages and the Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital maternity ward.
Mayor Owen Charuza confirmed the delay, attributing it to what he described as a “failure of the system” within council.
“Yes, the distribution has been delayed due to a failure of the system, which is currently being rectified,” he said.
However, when pressed to explain the nature of the problem, the mayor declined to provide details, saying stakeholders will be informed once the process is complete.
“Don’t speculate. You will be invited through the usual channels when everything is in place,” he said.
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Council sources, who requested anonymity for fear of victimisation, said the cheer fund had attracted significant donations, raising more than US$8 000 in cash and goods.
Efforts to confirm the exact figures were unsuccessful.
Council spokesperson Tichaona Mlauzi said he was on leave and referred inquiries to acting town clerk Simon Marara, who could not be reached for comment.
“I’m not in the picture since I’m on leave. Please get in touch with the town clerk,” Mlauzi said.
The delay has drawn criticism from residents, who expressed concern over council’s handling of donations meant for vulnerable groups.
Hunyani resident Adam Watyoka described the failure to distribute the donated goods as a serious lapse.
“Such bungling cannot be tolerated, especially considering that some people went out of their way to donate provisions meant to bring joy during the festive season,” Watyoka said.
Other residents questioned whether the donated goods and funds were intact, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
Traditionally, the Mayor’s Cheer Fund distribution is done on Christmas Day as a goodwill gesture to vulnerable members of the community.