Siziba Thando and Sithembinkosi Jiyane
The spirit of giving filled Entumbane Presbyterian Church on 6 December 2025 as the Mlilo Foundation hosted its annual Christmas Food Hampers, Giving Back to the Community programme.
This year, the initiative supported 300 families with essential groceries and festive treats.
The event was attended by senior government officials, community leaders, and church representatives.
Deputy Director in the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), Mr. Faison Antonio, delivered a message on behalf of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Judith Ncube, praising the initiative for bringing hope and joy to vulnerable groups during the festive season.
Antonio highlighted the importance of compassion and unity, reminding attendees of the true meaning of Christmas.
”Christmas is a time when we come together to uplift those who need support the most,” he said.
He also reflected on the growth of the programme, which started in 2023 by supporting just four families. In 2024, it expanded to 100 families under the theme “With the little you have, you make a difference.” This year, the theme “Taking Care of Our Own” marks another milestone, with the number of beneficiaries increasing to 300.
”What started small has grown through unity and kindness, the initiative echoes the national call: ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo / nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. He also commended all partners and sponsors for their generosity,” Antonio added.
”Your generosity will bring joy and smiles to many households this Christmas. When we act together, our small efforts create meaningful change,” he said.
He encouraged the community to continue cultivating a culture of giving, aligning with Zimbabwe’s vision of achieving upper middle-income status by 2030.
The beneficiaries included widows, orphans, people living with disabilities, the less privileged, elders, and the sick, with 50 members representing each group.
Each family received a well-packed food hamper containing mealie meal, rice, sugar, flour, salt, cooking oil, bread, baked beans, Royco soup, drinks, toiletries, a bathing towel, and even a Father Christmas hat. Additional bread donations came from the Mr. & Mrs. Sinkwa / Dr. Sinkwa truck, which was present on site.
Entertainment was provided by a local dance group, energizing the crowd and creating a celebratory atmosphere. Entumbane Clinic staff offered free medical check-ups throughout the day.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt poem delivered by Miranda Moyo, a Form 1 learner from Zenith Christian College, who encouraged the audience to embrace generosity and support the vulnerable.
”Giving opens doors to receiving. True humanity is reflected in helping one another, because umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu. I encourage everyone to give and support those who are vulnerable,” she said.
Butholezwe Nxumalo, committed to fighting crime, combating corruption, and promoting community development, explained that the goal of the donation is to ensure that every family enjoys a joyful festive season, including those who may not have the means to do so.
”The innovation behind the donation is to ensure that everyone has a happy festive season, including those who can’t afford it,” he said.
The Mlilo Foundation’s annual Christmas Food Hampers programme continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable families in Entumbane.
Through the spirit of giving, community unity, and generosity from partners and sponsors, the initiative not only brings festive joy but also reinforces the values of compassion, humanity, and togetherness.
This year’s outreach, benefiting 300 families, stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to support one another.
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