DOMCCP community intervention programmes hailed

OVER 80 000 people in Manicaland have benefitted through the Roman Catholic Church-run Diocese of Mutare Community Care Programme-initiated programmes since its formation 25 years ago.

DOMCCP celebrated its silver jubilee last Friday in Mutare and speaking at the occasion, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs, Cde Mandi Chimene, said the organisation was a shining example of successful interventions that have contributed immensely to the national response of HIV and Gender Based Violence.

“Over the years, over 80 000 people have had their lives restored through DOMCCP’s community health education and outreaches. Through this, people have moved from being bed bound to being productive community members and active citizens of Zimbabwe. DOMCCP has contributed immensely to the demystification of HIV and AIDS leading to more people living with HIV living a positive life and reduction in stigma and discrimination,” said Cde Chimene.

Besides contributions in the health sector, DOMCCP has spearheaded the construction of Sacred Heart Primary School in Hob-house and St John’s in Odzi.

Cde Chimene said DOMCCP’s 2016 to 2020 strategic plan resonates well with the national economic blueprint, Zim-Asset.

“Many families have received economic strengthening that has cushioned them from economic shocks. Men and women have grown from participating in simple methodologies such as mukando (internal savings and lending) to linkages to finance institutions such as CBZ, MicroKing and Virl.

“People have not only managed to generate income enough to meet household needs, but some have acquired productive assets, while others have created employment for other community members,” she said.

Speaking at the same occasion, DOMCCP board chairman, Mr Misheck Mugadza, said although DOMCCP has Catholic roots, it was a non-denominational and apolitical in terms of reach.

“This is because the challenges around health and HIV, education, Gender Based Violence and economic empowerment cut across religious and political boundaries.

“With this in mind, this event seeks to showcase and market success stories of our work achieved in partnership with different communities, funding and networking partners as well as Government departments in the five districts of Manicaland,” said Mr Mugadza.