Zanu-PF UK women donate sewing machines to Mnangagwa's wife

First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa's philanthropic efforts through the Angel of Hope Foundation continue to earn widespread admiration both locally and abroad, with the Zanu-PF Women's League UK District becoming the latest group to extend support by donating sewing machines to her empowerment programmes.

A delegation from the UK District met the First Lady at her Zimbabwe House offices yesterday, where they handed over the brand-new sewing machines — a gesture they said was inspired by "Mother Zimbabwe's unwavering commitment to uplifting women and youths across the country."

Presenting the donation, the women said their contribution aimed to complement Dr Mnangagwa's ongoing initiatives promoting self-reliance, skills development, and community empowerment.

Visibly moved by the gesture, Dr Mnangagwa expressed her gratitude, commending the women for their solidarity and compassion.

"I am humbled by your kindness. Your thoughtfulness will go a long way in empowering families and creating livelihoods," she said.
"You are working hard for your own families, yet you thought of others in need and made sacrifices on their behalf. Acts like this deeply touch me."

The First Lady praised the Zanu-PF Women's League UK District for aligning their efforts with those of the Angel of Hope Foundation, saying such partnerships strengthen the collective push to improve the lives of underprivileged communities.

Zanu-PF Women's League UK District Secretary for Finance, Hellen Rushwaya, said the donation was made possible through funds raised by members and supporters in the United Kingdom.

"As women in the UK, we held a fundraising event with help from our relatives and friends. We decided the best way to use the funds was to support something that would empower others — hence the sewing machines," she said.
"We were inspired by our First Lady's tireless efforts to assist the needy, and we wanted to be part of that positive change."

Patricia Chimombe, the League's Secretary for Student Affairs and Scholarships, described the First Lady as a "true role model" whose humanitarian work continues to inspire women both in Zimbabwe and abroad.

"We came as women to show our admiration for the work being done by our First Lady, especially her focus on women and children. Her dedication to uplifting communities is remarkable," she said.
"We were also motivated after seeing her honoured at Cambridge University in 2023 for her outstanding philanthropic work — recognition that showed how her efforts resonate even internationally."

Chimombe added that the group plans to participate in some of the First Lady's community initiatives such as Nhanga, Gota, and Ixhiba sessions to learn from her experiences and further contribute to empowerment programmes.

The Angel of Hope Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in assisting vulnerable groups through donations, training, and support initiatives across Zimbabwe. The First Lady has consistently emphasised that her programmes are conducted in a non-partisan manner, focusing solely on improving livelihoods and fostering unity.