The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has officially handed over a Waiting Mothers Shelter and other key community facilities in Runyararo Settlement, Ward 7, Chimanimani, to the Government. The infrastructure was developed under the Strengthening Protection, Resilience and Preparedness for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities in Zimbabwe Project, and is expected to strengthen health, protection, and resilience for communities displaced by Cyclone Idai and their hosts.
ZCC General Secretary Rev. Wilfred Dimingu said partnerships are key to lasting development. “Sustainable impact is achieved when institutions work together, combining their different strengths,” he said.
He noted that livelihoods support, including livestock pass-on schemes launched in November, is already improving household resilience and economic recovery. He also stressed that resilience-building is ongoing. “Despite the significant progress made, gaps still exist in fully addressing the vulnerabilities faced by the community,” Rev. Dimingu said, reaffirming ZCC’s commitment to mobilise more resources and expand the work.
Bishop Eric Ruwona of the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland led the handover for ZCC. He said the Church’s role goes beyond spiritual care to restoring dignity, hope, and practical support.
“These facilities represent safety, dignity, access to essential services, and strengthened protection systems within the Runyararo community, a true reflection of faith in action,” Bishop Ruwona said.
He called for shared responsibility in protecting the infrastructure. “Development is not only about what is handed over, but about how it is preserved and utilized for future generations,” he said, urging beneficiaries to take ownership.
Representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Manicaland, Mr. J. Mashingaidze thanked ZCC for partnering with Government to rebuild lives after Tropical Cyclone Idai in 2019. He encouraged residents to safeguard the facilities and commended the presence of various government ministries as a sign of a whole-of-government approach.
Also in attendance were Chief Mutambara, ZCC leadership, Department of Civil Protection Acting Deputy Director Ms. Veronica Bare, the Chimanimani District Development Coordinator, representatives of government ministries, departments, and agencies, local church and community leaders, and many Runyararo residents.
The project was supported by Act for Peace and the Australian Government under the Australian NGO Cooperation Program. ZCC expressed gratitude for continued support toward protection, livelihoods, preparedness, social cohesion, and access to essential services for IDPs and host communities.
