Rubatsiro Zimcare Trust, a school dedicated to children with intellectual challenges, has received a significant boost to its agricultural and daily operations following a generous donation from local businessman and philanthropist Timothy Chizuzu.
The donation, handed over last Saturday, is specifically aimed at bolstering the school’s poultry project and supporting its 24 learners—comprising 15 boys and nine girls.
The contribution included 30 bags of broiler stockfeed (starters, growers, and finishers) to sustain the school’s 600 chicks, alongside 10 bags of maize, cooking oil, sugar, detergents, and toiletries.
Speaking after the handover, Chizuzu acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project.
"I supported Rubatsiro Special School poultry project by donating stockfeeds and thanks to Charles Stewart who donated the chicks for the project," he said.
Chizuzu emphasised the importance of self-sufficiency for institutions catering to vulnerable groups.
"I would be happy to see the community and business community in Kadoma taking part in helping vulnerable groups by assisting with sustainable projects which can make these institutions self-supportive and train their children to do self-help projects, aligning with our president's mantra of leaving no one and no place behind," he said.
Looking forward, the philanthropist expressed a desire for the school to expand its impact.
"As a school of special needs, I wish it can develop to also become a rehabilitation centre because of the drug abuse outbreak which has become more dangerous to our communities and the future of the country. I pledge to continue supporting the school's projects and initiatives," Chizuzu added.
The school’s deputy head, Mirriam Muguti, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture.
"Tears of joy are not enough to express our heartfelt thanks to Mr Chizuzu for his kindness and humanity. We're truly blessed to have people like him in our community," she said.
Muguti also used the opportunity to advocate for the rights of children with disabilities, urging families to seek proper support.
"We urge families with children who have special needs to avoid stigmatising them and instead enrol them in responsible schools that cater to their needs. Let us work together to create a more inclusive society," she added.
Rubatsiro Zimcare Trust currently provides comprehensive care through a dedicated team of six government workers qualified in special needs education and nine ancillary staff trained in mental health and nursing.
The donation is expected to provide students with practical skills while generating much-needed income for the institution.