by Nyemudzai Kakore
United Family International Church (UFIC)’s Prophetess Ruth Makandiwa yesterday celebrated her birthday in style by handing out food hampers and gifts to 900 orphans and 100 widows, as has become tradition on her birthday.
The orphans were drawn from seven children’s homes namely Tanyaradzwa , Danai, Kutenda , Harare , Chinyaradzo, Redemption Child Care Centre and Chiedza Child Care Centre.
Prophetess Makandiwa, best known for her philanthropic work, is wife to UFIC founder and leader Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa. She has made her mark in society by engaging heavily in philanthropic work across the country as she is involved with many charitable events and organisations.
In an interview with journalists, UFIC spokesperson Pastor Prime Kufa said the invited orphans and widows had come to join Prophetess Makandiwa to celebrate her birthday.
“Today was Prophet Ruth Makandiwa’s birthday and traditionally she has always celebrated her birthday with the underprivileged,” said Pastor Kufa.
“She has invited 900 orphans and close to 100 widows today so that she can fulfil her vision and her passion for charity work, so it is our duty as UFIC to gather the under-privileged and celebrate with her.”
Apart from the children and widows, students from various colleges expressed their gratitude to Prophetess Makandiwa for her good heart as she pays for their tuition and their upkeep.Herald
On the same day at least 87 grocery hampers were donated by the First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe were handed over to families of fallen heroes in Mashonaland West Province. Speaking at the handover ceremony at Buffalo Downs Business Centre in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West Minister of State Cde Faber Chidarikire said the First Family values the sacrifice of fallen and living heroes.
“Government and indeed the First Family holds dear efforts to uplift the lives of families of our departed cadres,” he said. “That desire has found expression in President Mugabe’s decision to set up a ministry dedicated to the affairs of war veterans headed by Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa.”
He said more should be done to improve the welfare of widows and children of fallen heroes. Beneficiaries include families of provincial heroes interred at the Chinhoyi Heroes Acre and those buried at their respective homes.
