By Tendai Chisiri

Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and its partners donated a minibus to Jairos Jiri Association as a means to enhance mobilty, independence, and opportunities for the beneficiaries of the rehabilitation centre for the children in the capital Thursday.
The donation was made possible through a Charity Golf Day tournament which was participated by Econet Wireless as the main sponsor, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, University of Zimbabwe, TelOne, Dark Fibre Africa, ZB Bank, ZIMPOST, Powertel Communications, Compulink, Telecontract, Fedex and Dandemutande.
In his remarks at the handover ceremony POTRAZ director-general Dr. Gift Machengete said as they are gathered to mark the handover of a minibus to the Jairos Jiri Association, an exceptional organization devoted to empowering individuals with disabilities and facilitating their integration into society, this gesture goes beyond merely transferring keys; it is a powerful testament to the impact of collective action and community-driven initiatives.
” As we hand over this vehicle, we are not just providing transportation; we are enhancing mobility, independence, and opportunities for the beneficiaries of the Jairos Jiri Association. This minibus holds immense potential for various uses that will directly benefit your organization and the communities you serve. It can be utilized for transportation to medical appointments, ensuring individuals have reliable access to essential healthcare services. It will facilitate educational outings, allowing trips to schools, training centres, and workshops that are vital for personal development and learning”, Machengete said.
The minibus will also support community events, providing a means to participate in local gatherings and fostering a sense of inclusion. Additionally, it will assist in transporting necessary supplies and support materials to Jairos Jiri Centres and help Jairos Jiri pupils attend social activities and gatherings that promote interaction and integration within the community. POTRAZ hopes that this minibus will facilitate easier access to essential services, support programs, and community activities, thereby advancing the association’s noble mission.
Giving her remarks at the event, Jairos Jiri representative, resource mobilisation executive Mrs Grace Kamanga on behalf of national executive director Mr Wilson Njozi Ruvere said they were gathered not to just celebrate a generous donation but to honour a partnership built on compassion, understanding and unwavering support for the years. The children’s centre falls under the Mashonaland Branch and the incerdible gift of a car will make a monumental difference in the lives of the children at the centre.
” We are also deeply appreciative of the support POTRAZ has extended to toher centres, which include Kadoma School forthe Blind, where equipmemt donations have transformed lives. Your commitment to upliftimg the day-to-day lives of individuals with disabilities is truly commendable. Additionally, we are grateful for the intial computers provided to establish our very own computer lab at the Harare Centre. These resources have opened doors for new opportunities, allowing our children to learn, grow, and thrive in an increasingly digital world”, Mrs Kamanga said.
Jairos Jiri Association serves over 18 000 people with disabilities annually through outreach and follow-up integration programmes. In addition, the association runs 16 centres where 1200 children and adults receive treatment care and education.
Among its many establishments are special and inclusive schools, clinics, homes, hostels, vocational training centres, income generating projects for people with disabilities, Community Based Rehabilitation programme, Advocacy and Lobby, Schorlaship Fund for People with Disabilities, Orthopedic Workshop, Outreach and Follow-up Integration Programmes.
