Shungu Dzevana: Making dreams a reality
CHILDREN are generally innocent and never shy to share their dreams and wishes.
However, they need the right environment, care and support from parents, guardians and society in general for them to achieve more in life.
Shungu Dzevana orphanage in Mhondoro is playing its part.
The home was established in 1992 by Sister Mercy Mutyambizi and has helped many children realise their dreams.
“Unlike other homes where we find matrons running around, at this institution we have mothers assigned to take care of children in each and every home with at least 10 children.
“As of now, the home has over 449 children and the institution is fighting hard to make sure that all the children reach their full potential,” said the founder and executive director, Sister Mutyambizi.
The orphanage has since expanded and now has another division in Hatcliffe, Harare.
Driving into the Shungu Dzevana complex will certainly leave one in awe. The children are full of life and there is never a dull moment when around them.
It is difficult, if not impossible, to notice they are orphans.
The staff tasked with caring for the boys and girls have guaranteed them proper living conditions, similar to any normal family set-up.
As a result, Shungu Dzevana has over the years evolved into a beacon of hope and has been embraced by many in society.
The institution has provided previously disadvantaged children a platform to turn
into reality their dreams to become a pilot, doctor, footballer, businessperson, or even a politician.
“Shungu Dzevana is not a place that
wants to restrict wishes and dreams into mere fantasies. We want to help the children achieve what they yearn for,” said Sister Mutyambizi.
Sister’s childhood inspired her to create the orphanage.
“I was raised by my grandparents in Mhondoro, but with love and care that was as good as that of a mother. This pushed me to set up this home.
“I want to extend love and happiness to other children,” she said.
A day with the children showed that from morning to evening, the home is a hive of activity.
“In the morning, like any other children, they wake up to pray and thank God for the day, clean their rooms while the older ones will prepare breakfast and pack lunch boxes for each and everyone. They also help their mother with certain chores before they all leave for school”.
Last week, the country’s largest integrated media house, Zimpapers, gave the orphanage an early Christmas cheer after they donated an assortment of goods.
Zimpapers Digital and Publishing (DAP) general manager Mr Marks Shayamano and The Sunday Mail Editor, Victoria Ruzvidzo, handed over the donations that included 10 bunk beds, mattresses, 100 plates and 100 cups among other things.