By Spotlight Correspondent

In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, NetOne, Zimbabwe’s state-owned mobile network operator, distributed over 100 food hampers to elderly residents in the Masala area of Gokwe. This initiative supports the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind in pursuit of Vision 2030.

NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, emphasized the company’s dedication to community development. “As NetOne, we recognize our responsibility to support vulnerable members of our society. These food hampers represent our commitment to ensuring that no one goes hungry, particularly our elderly who have contributed so much to building our nation.”

The initiative also aligns with sustainable development goals, as highlighted by NetOne Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Learnmore Musunda. “This distribution program demonstrates our commitment to SDG 1 and 2 – eliminating poverty and hunger. We believe that by supporting our communities, we contribute to the national vision of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.”

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honorable Owen Ncube, commended NetOne for the initiative. “This gesture by NetOne shows how the private sector can partner with government in achieving our developmental goals. Such actions directly support President Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no place and no one behind.”

Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude for the timely assistance. Gogo Maria Moyo, a 78-year-old resident, was overwhelmed with joy. “I am so thankful to NetOne for remembering us elderly people. This food hamper will help me feed my grandchildren for several weeks.”

Sekuru Thomas Ndlovu, aged 82, praised NetOne’s thoughtfulness. “We often struggle to make ends meet, especially during this time of the year. NetOne has shown us that they care about the elderly in our community.”

The food hampers contained essential items, including mealie meal, cooking oil, sugar, salt, tea leaves, and other basic commodities, providing much-needed relief to the elderly recipients in the Masala area.