Lebo Moyo
BULAWAYO -A controversy has erupted surrounding Baker’s Inn, a leading bread manufacturer, over allegations of a fake donation to John Jemwa, a semi-blind entrepreneur.
In April 2023, the company purportedly donated a scooter bike and a container to Jemwa as part of an initiative aimed at empowering people with disabilities.
The donation ceremony was widely publicized, with photographs taken to commemorate the event. Baker’s Inn officials were present, handing over the keys to the scooter bike and the container to Jemwa. The event was meant to showcase the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.
However, Jemwa has come forward claiming that the donated items were never transferred to his name. He alleges that the scooter bike and the container remain registered under Baker’s Inn’s name, and the company is now attempting to reclaim the container. This revelation has raised suspicions about the company’s true intentions behind the donation.
“It’s disappointing and frustrating,” Jemwa said in an interview. “I thought they were genuinely trying to help me, but it seems they just wanted to boost their public image.”
The incident has sparked outrage, particularly among disability rights activists.
“This is a clear case of exploitation,” said one activist. “Baker’s Inn used Jemwa’s disability to score publicity points without actually providing meaningful support.”
Ironically, Jemwa’s tuck shop in Nguboyenja experienced a significant surge in bread sales after Baker’s Inn provided marketing materials. However, Jemwa claims that the company’s support was conditional upon him promoting their brand.
In a letter from Baker’s Inn dated December 5, 2022, Sales and Distribution Manager Keymond Dube informed Jemwa about a partnership opportunity, saying, “We are pleased to notify you that you have been awarded a lifetime opportunity to become our partner in the distribution of our products.”
Dube added that the company recognized Jemwa’s potential beyond his visual impairment, stating, “This gesture is our way of supporting inclusion in all our programs and promoting self-reliance.”
The controversy has cast a shadow on Baker’s Inn’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, leaving many to question the authenticity of their philanthropic efforts.
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