In a powerful demonstration of international solidarity and community-centered action, 1,800 vulnerable households in Epworth and Ponesai Vanhu Children's Home have received 20 metric tonnes of rice through a collaborative initiative between the Chinese Embassy, DAPP Zimbabwe and the Government of Zimbabwe.
The official distribution ceremony, held on 3 September 2026 at the Epworth Local Board in Harare, marked a significant milestone in addressing food insecurity challenges facing communities affected by climate-induced drought and economic hardship.
While the Chinese Embassy provided the rice donation, DAPP Zimbabwe took the lead in operationalizing the relief effort. Leveraging its deep grassroots networks and experience in community development, DAPP identified Epworth as a high-priority area due to its concentration of vulnerable populations, including returnees from South Africa, elderly-headed households and families caring for persons with disabilities.
"Our partnership with the Department of Social Development gave us access to a verified database of 1,800 families, while the Epworth Local Board provided transport, storage and security." Said Mr Soda.
DAPP Zimbabwe Country Director Luckson Soda
Of the 20 tonnes donated, 2 tonnes were allocated to Ponesai Vanhu Children's Home, which cares for 60 orphaned and vulnerable children, with the remaining 18 tonnes distributed to households across Epworth.
Presiding over the ceremony, Hon. Sen. C. Z. Tawengwa, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, emphasized the importance of such partnerships in advancing national development goals.
"Today's rice distribution is a practical demonstration of what can be achieved when government, development partners, local authorities and communities work together to respond to the needs of vulnerable citizens," said Minister Tawengwa.
Hon. Senator. C. Z. Tawengwa, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province
The Minister highlighted that this intervention aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the country's vision of achieving an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. "NDS2 places emphasis on inclusive growth, social protection, resilience and ensuring that the benefits of national development reach ordinary citizens," he added.
His Excellency Ambassador Zhou Ding of the People's Republic of China to Zimbabwe underscored the depth of the bilateral relationship, stating: "A friend in need is a friend indeed. Over the years, whenever Zimbabwe has encountered challenges and hardships, China as its all-weather friend has always extended a helping hand at the very moment it was most needed. Time and again, we have proven that China and Zimbabwe are more than just partners we are brothers, through thick and thin."
His Excellency Ambassador Zhou Ding of the People's Republic of China to Zimbabwe
"We entrusted our donation to DAPP Zimbabwe because of their proven track record in reaching the most vulnerable with accountability and care," Ambassador Zhou added.
Among the beneficiaries was Joyce Zemura (45) from Ward 7, Epworth, a returnee from South Africa caring for two sons living with disabilities. Her seven-year-old son is physically handicapped, while her 17-year-old son lives with autism.
Joyce Zemura (lady from right)
With emotion in her voice, Zemura shared: "This rice means everything to my family. As a mother of children with special needs, every day is a struggle to put food on the table. This is not just rice, it is a message that we are not forgotten. I am grateful.”
DAPP Zimbabwe has committed to continuing its work with local authorities and government to prepare for future shocks, including the anticipated El Niño-influenced 2026/27 agricultural season.
"We are not a one-time relief agency," added Mr. Soda. "We are a development organization. This rice distribution is part of a broader strategy to build community resilience, strengthen social protection systems and empower local structures so that when crisis hits, communities are not helpless they are prepared."
