Monday 16 March 2026
Zim GBC News | Gender and Community
Harare – In a remarkable display of social media solidarity, businesswoman Olinda Chapel and socialite Ashford “Ashbragger” Chimombe have exceeded their fundraising target to support Elias Chikwava, a Chitungwiza-based sadza vendor whose selfless story of caring for children with disabilities has captured the nation’s heart.
The pair launched a GoFundMe campaign with an initial target of US$5,000 after Chikwava was spotted cooking and selling sadza on the streets of Harare’s Central Business District. The campaign has now raised a total of US$6,500, surpassing all expectations.
Chikwava, believed to be a former science teacher, turned to street vending to sustain his household.
However, it is not just his immediate family he is providing for. Moved by personal experience after their own child was born with a disability, Chikwava and his wife opened their home to other children facing similar challenges. Today, they are the primary caregivers for ten children living with disabilities.
To sustain the household, Chikwava travels daily to the Harare CBD to sell sadza, while his wife remains at home managing the care of their own child and the nine other children under their protection.
Following the success of the fundraiser, an elated Olinda Chapel took to Facebook to thank the community.
“I am very proud of my community, we reached our target,” Chapel wrote.
“Tomorrow Mr Munetsi will give us his US$200 and I will add my US$1,200 as promised. US$6,500 pfeeee.”
She confirmed that Ashbragger would provide an update regarding the logistics of withdrawing the funds from the international platform.
“Ashford will update us on how long it takes for him to withdraw from GoFundMe, and once that transaction has been completed we will hand over the full US$6,500 peacefully,” she added.
The story has drawn widespread praise online, with many Zimbabweans applauding the initiative of the fundraisers and the profound compassion of the Chikwava family.
“The real heroes are that man and his wife,” commented one social media user.
“To take in ten children while selling sadza on the street… that is the definition of love.”
The funds are expected to provide much-needed relief and support for the family’s ongoing care of the vulnerable children.
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