First Lady launches Angels of Hope Foundation
FIRST Lady Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa yesterday launched her charity organisation — Angels of Hope Foundation — whose main focus would be to uplift lives of disadvantaged children and other vulnerable members of society.
The launch, which was held at the Harare International Conference Centre, saw nearly one million dollars being pledged by individuals and organisations towards assisting the needy. Among those who pledged substantial amounts were wife of United Family International Church Founder Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, Mrs Ruth who pledged $300 000 while President Mnangagwa chipped in with $100 000. Several other guests donated different amounts of money, building materials, blankets, food and clothes. The Foundation is led by a board of directors chaired by Mrs Chipo Mutasa.
Speaking at the launch, Amai Mnangagwa said the role of the foundation was to create a better future for vulnerable members of society.
“The Angel of Hope Foundation is about standing up and taking responsibility for our nation’s future as the core of our activities is the commitment to create a better future for our children irrespective of gender, race, religion, tribe or economic status. I believe from the bottom of my heart that every child deserves equal opportunities. I believe from the bottom of my heart that the needs of the vulnerable matter and I believe from the bottom of my heart that if we invest in and nurture our children, their future becomes bright.”
Amai Mnangagwa also paid tribute to all guests for making the event a success.
“Your presents today bear testimony to the fact that we share these values, passion and commitment. Ladies and gentleman, together we can transform our society, together we can build a new Zimbabwe for all our children and for that I thank you all for coming.
In a gesture of unity and solidarity with the Tsvangirai family, the First Lady requested delegates to observe a minute of silence in remembrance of MDC-T leader Mr Morgan Tsvangirai who died of cancer of the colon in South Africa last week.
Guest of Honour Mrs Iryna Amira Khalfan commended Amai Mnangagwa for the work she has been doing.
A video carrying a solidarity message from South African musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka was also played at the event.
Different church representatives including those from UFIC, Zion Christian Church, Anglican and Methodist Churches in Zimbabwe gave solidarity messages. The event was attended by President Mnangagwa, VicePresident Cde Kembo Mohadi, Zanu-PF national chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, Vice-President Retired Commander Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Mary, Cabinet Ministers, senior Government officials and members of the diplomatic community.