Renowned philanthropist and traditional leader Sekuru Kamwelo Banda has publicly rallied behind First Lady  Auxillia Mnangagwa’s humanitarian initiatives, describing them as a key pillar in Zimbabwe’s ongoing social and economic transformation.

Sekuru  Banda was among senior delegates who attended a major food distribution programme held in Nyabira, Mashonaland West, on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. The event formed part of the First Lady’s nationwide social welfare programmes aimed at alleviating hardship among vulnerable communities.

The food aid initiative, which benefitted more than 1,400 families, showcased the strengthening partnership between private philanthropy and the Office of the First Lady in tackling poverty, social vulnerability and inclusive development, priorities that align with Zimbabwe’s national development agenda.

The programme was officiated by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Mashonaland West, Marian Chombo, who represented the First Lady. The event drew community leaders, beneficiaries and development partners, reflecting a shared commitment to people-centred development and grassroots empowerment.

In her address, Chombo commended Banda for his continued support of government-led social protection programmes and the First Lady’s humanitarian initiatives, noting that such collaborations are essential in turning national policies into tangible benefits for communities. She emphasised that partnerships with non-state actors are critical as the country accelerates towards its Vision 2030 goal of becoming an upper middle-income economy.

Chombo expressed gratitude to  Banda for supporting the Angel of Hope Foundation, which she said has made a notable impact on improving the welfare of vulnerable communities across the country. She also praised his firm alignment with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision, adding that government remains committed to working with partners who share the same development objectives.

Speaking at the gathering,  Sekuru Banda applauded the First Lady’s hands-on and community-focused approach to humanitarian work, saying her initiatives have brought meaningful relief and empowerment to disadvantaged families. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Angel of Hope Foundation, which he described as a cornerstone of humanitarian intervention in Zimbabwe.

Banda noted that the Nyabira programme alone had provided food assistance to more than 1,400 families and highlighted other initiatives led by the First Lady, including women and youth empowerment programmes, support for vulnerable groups, anti-drug and substance abuse campaigns, breast cancer awareness programmes and the establishment of rehabilitation centres.

He further stressed that the First Lady’s humanitarian work plays a vital role in advancing President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, arguing that sustainable national development cannot be achieved without empowering the most vulnerable members of society. He called on individuals, organisations and communities to unite behind the national vision, saying the programmes currently being implemented are delivering tangible benefits to the nation.

The government’s readiness to work with all sectors of society reflects a broader strategy of consolidating resources, expertise and goodwill for national development.  Banda’s endorsement of the Second Republic’s agenda is seen as strengthening public confidence in government programmes while encouraging wider citizen participation in Zimbabwe’s ongoing socio-economic transformation.