First Lady of Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of six young learners in a fire incident in Bamhamire Village, Musani area, Chipinge District, following a suspected gas tank explosion. As a mother, I cannot begin to imagine the pain of losing a child. No parent should ever have to endure such an unbearable loss. My heart goes out to the bereaved families and the entire community during this difficult time. May they find strength and comfort as they come to terms with this devastating loss. My thoughts and prayers are with them.

It was encouraging to see our Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation beneficiaries share the pitch with football legends, including Peter Ndlovu, Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat. Sport has the power to inspire, unite and transform lives. I personally accompanied them, watched the full match and cheered them on, sharing in their excitement. I believe this opportunity encouraged them, lifted their spirits and gave them a chance to showcase their talent. Beyond the result, the smiles, confidence and renewed hope on display reminded us that rehabilitation is also about rediscovering one's talents, building self-belief and embracing a brighter future. Every young person deserves a second chance!

It gives me great pleasure that our Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre has expanded its mandate to include skills training. Rehabilitation must go beyond helping young people break free from drug and substance abuse. It must also equip them with practical skills and opportunities to rebuild their lives and become self-reliant. I introduced this programme so that I can personally oversee its implementation, witness the beneficiaries’ commitment and dedication, and ensure that their efforts translate into practical skills, meaningful opportunities and a brighter future. Today, I was delighted to witness the first group of graduates from our Mbare facility showcasing products they had made, including harrows and fences from their welding projects, garments, detergents, perfumes, body lotions and various food products. The creativity, talent and determination on display reaffirmed the importance of skills development.

I am deeply humbled and honoured to have received the International Women Icon Award 2026 from Malaysia’s Binary University. This prestigious distinction, bestowed on one outstanding woman from across the world, recognises our collective efforts to uplift communities and transform lives. I dedicate this honour to the communities we serve and every Zimbabwean who continues to make a difference in the lives of others. May it inspire us to serve with even greater love, compassion and purpose, while encouraging women and young people to realise their full potential. I am equally honoured by the invitation to deliver the keynote address at the forthcoming Africa-Asia Women’s Summit, which will provide an opportunity to share experiences and strengthen collaboration in advancing women’s empowerment.

Today, I presided over the graduation of the inaugural First Lady’s Youth Vanguard Movement Training Programme at the University of Zimbabwe, following its launch in March this year. I established the initiative to nurture, mentor and equip young people with the leadership skills and values needed to contribute meaningfully to national development. To our graduates, as you step into your communities and institutions, I encourage you to champion integrity and accountability, lead through service and apply the knowledge you have acquired to address challenges in your communities. Congratulations to our pioneering graduates. May your actions, ideas and commitment to serving others make a lasting difference and inspire positive change in your communities and our beloved Zimbabwe.

I warmly welcomed the Iranian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Amir Hossein Hosseini, who paid a courtesy call on me at my offices in Harare. I am grateful for Iran’s donation of advanced medical equipment to the Angel of Hope Foundation. This support will strengthen our humanitarian efforts and help improve access to healthcare for vulnerable communities. Our discussions also explored opportunities for people-to-people cooperation in healthcare, women's empowerment, agriculture and community development, with a shared commitment to improving the well-being of our people.

Every community, every culture, every faith matters. At the inaugural Muslim Cookout Competition in Mahusekwa, we celebrated our diversity through gastronomy, nhanga and fashion. We can preserve our traditions, promote healthy eating, create business opportunities and empower communities to improve their livelihoods. I interacted with Muslim and non-Muslim girls during a Nhanga session, where we shared life lessons on cultural values, discipline, self-respect and responsible choices as we nurture confident young women. My vision is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has a place and an opportunity to contribute to our nation’s development. Together, we are building a Zimbabwe where everyone belongs and no one is left behind.

In the scenic mountanious landscapes of Manicaland, I took the Traditional Medicinal Herbs Programme to our communities, whose people hold valuable knowledge of traditional remedies, foods and healthy ways of life passed down through generations. Thank you Manicaland for coming out in your huge numbers. These natural remedies are found within our communities and are often easy to obtain and prepare. They help families manage certain ailments, complement modern healthcare and contribute to saving lives. For generations, our ancestors drew on these traditional remedies, nutritious foods and healthy ways of life to support their well-being and longevity. Indeed, behind every medicinal plant is a story of care, resilience and a community’s determination to keep its traditions alive. We have a duty to protect this invaluable heritage and ensure that its knowledge is passed down to present and future generations.

I am deeply grateful to my dear sister, Uzbekistan’s First Lady, Mrs Ziroat Mirziyoyeva, for inviting me to the World Summit on Children’s Well-being in Samarkand and for her warm, sisterly welcome. The summit offered a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and explore practical ways to improve children’s lives. Through collaboration, we can ensure more children access the care, protection and support they need to thrive. I was also honoured to share Zimbabwe’s efforts through the Angel of Hope Foundation to improve childhood cancer care, support vulnerable children and help young people affected by drug and substance abuse rebuild their lives. Every child deserves the opportunity to live, learn and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

There is something deeply moving about watching a mother hold her child again after months or years of pain, worry and uncertainty. The tears, tight embraces and joy on their faces tell stories that words can hardly express. In those moments, we are reminded that no matter how difficult the journey has been, hope can still find its way home. Today, at our Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mbare, we witnessed emotional reunions as parents welcomed their children back into their arms. Beyond the tears of joy was the hope of healing, rebuilding trust and starting afresh as families. Our children need love, understanding and support to find their way back. Let us never give up on them, because every life matters and every family deserves a chance to heal.

Through the Angel of Hope Foundation, I reached out to families in Masvingo Province affected by devastating hailstorm, donating food supplies to help ease their burden as they work to rebuild their lives. My heart is always with families going through difficult times. I understand that when disaster strikes, the loss goes beyond damaged homes and destroyed food supplies; it also brings uncertainty about tomorrow. In such moments, we must stand together, offer comfort and remind one another that no one is forgotten. Let us continue to embrace the spirit of Ubuntu by being there for one another, especially when it matters most.

Every patient deserves comfort, dignity and quality care. Through the Angel of Hope Foundation, we donated modern hospital beds to Rosa Rural Hospital, where I was born and raised alongside my siblings. Never forget your roots. Wherever life takes us, let us always remember the communities that shaped us and find ways to give back. Every act of kindness and service, guided by love and compassion, can bring comfort, restore dignity and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Last night, as Zanu PF Secretary for Environment and Tourism, I had the honour of attending the inaugural Zanu PF Presidential Ball alongside His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa. The event brought together business leaders and stakeholders in support of a shared cause. I was equally elated to receive support from members of the business community for the work of the Angel of Hope Foundation. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and support, which will strengthen our efforts to uplift vulnerable children, women, families and communities. Together, through love, compassion and the spirit of Ubuntu, we can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Every contribution counts, bringing us closer to reaching those in need and restoring hope where it matters most.

Last night, as Zanu PF Secretary for Environment and Tourism, I had the honour of attending the inaugural Zanu PF Presidential Ball alongside His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa. The event brought together business leaders and stakeholders in support of a shared cause. I was equally elated to receive support from members of the business community for the work of the Angel of Hope Foundation. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and support, which will strengthen our efforts to uplift vulnerable children, women, families and communities. Together, through love, compassion and the spirit of Ubuntu, we can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Every contribution counts, bringing us closer to reaching those in need and restoring hope where it matters most.

What a beautiful celebration of our culture in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West Province, through our Doek Drive! It was heartwarming to see our elderly women sharing their wisdom with younger generations, proudly wearing their doeks and tying their zambias. These moments remind us that our culture lives on when we pass our traditions, values and wisdom from one generation to the next. As we wrap up the provincial launches of our Doek Drive, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this journey possible and to all the women, girls and communities who embraced this initiative. Thank you all for helping to keep our cultural identity alive while upholding our dignity and family values. Together, let us wear our heritage with pride and ensure that our beautiful traditions continue to guide and inspire generations to come.

In Mbare, I led a clean-up campaign under the theme “My Environment, My Responsibility”, reminding one another that a clean Zimbabwe starts with each of us and that cleanliness must become a daily habit, not just a monthly exercise. Let us take pride in our surroundings and embrace the Zero Waste Movement by reducing, reusing and recycling for a cleaner, healthier and safer Zimbabwe. I also engaged with the community on the worrying issue of people axing one another, particularly among couples. As a mother, it pains my heart to see such horrific acts of violence, whether committed by men or women. It is even more distressing when mothers themselves become involved, yet our role is to bear, nurture, protect and preserve life. Let us choose dialogue over violence, resolve our differences peacefully and remember the precious responsibility we have to safeguard life.

It was a pleasure to host a dinner in honour of Zimbabwe Care from the United States, celebrating an enduring partnership with the Angel of Hope Foundation that, since 2018, has helped bring quality healthcare closer to communities across Zimbabwe. My heartfelt gratitude goes to the Zimbabwe Care medical professionals from the United States and our local health personnel, whose time, expertise and resources supported the week-long Masvingo outreach and helped essential medical supplies and other donations reach families in need. This partnership is a beautiful example of what can be achieved when international solidarity comes together with local commitment. We remain committed to strengthening this partnership and ensuring that its benefits continue to touch the lives of our people.

Today, it was heartening to see multitudes of people from communities across Masvingo Province gathering at Nemamwa Grounds to benefit from our week-long medical outreach. Through my Angel of Hope Foundation, in partnership with Zimbabwe Care, which comprises a team of doctors and medical specialists from the United States, specialist consultations, screenings, treatment, medicines and other medical support are being provided free of charge. The wellbeing of every Zimbabwean, including those in vulnerable communities, will remain close to my heart. I encourage everyone to make use of the services available and prioritise their health. Early detection saves lives.

For many people in Masvingo, health concerns they have lived with for years are finally receiving the attention they need at Nemanwa Grounds during our week-long medical outreach. As Health and Child Care Ambassador, I am committed to helping bring specialist consultations, screening, diagnosis, treatment, medicines and medical accessories closer to communities, all free of charge. Through my Angel of Hope Foundation, I am deeply grateful to our partner, Zimbabwe Care from the United States, whose medical teams are working hand in hand with our local health personnel to make this outreach possible. I encourage everyone to make full use of this ongoing outreach, speak openly about their health concerns and seek help early. Your health matters, and early attention can make a difference.

Today, I visited the family of the late Mr Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy, to convey my heartfelt condolences and stand with their loved ones during this painful time. My heart goes out to the family as they come to terms with this devastating loss. No words can fully ease the pain of losing loved ones, but I pray that God gives them strength, comfort and courage in the difficult days ahead. Wicknell touched many lives through his acts of compassion and support for people from different walks of life. His contribution to the lives of others will remain part of the legacy he leaves behind. My thoughts and prayers are also with the families of the other victims who lost their lives in this tragic accident. May they too find strength and comfort as they mourn their loved ones.