MP spreads Christmas cheer with hampers for elderly in Lupane’s Chitete Village

Thembelihle Mhlanga

LUPANE – Elderly residents of Chitete Village in Dandanda Ward 3 received welcome relief this festive season after Lupane West Member of Parliament, Hon. Mxolisi Sibanda, distributed food hampers and clothing as part of his Christmas community support initiative.

The handover ceremony, held at Chitete Primary School, brought together dozens of elderly villagers, many of whom rely on small-scale farming and assistance from relatives. The hampers consisted of basic groceries and clothing items, providing timely support as families continue to contend with economic hardships.

Hon. Sibanda said the initiative was aimed at honouring senior citizens and cushioning them during the holiday period.
“Christmas is a time to share and show love. Our elderly are the backbone of our communities; they have contributed greatly to this country and deserve support, especially now when times are tough,” he said. “As their representative, I have a responsibility to stand with them, listen to their concerns and assist where possible.”

Zimbabwe’s elderly population, particularly in rural areas, continues to face challenges linked to rising living costs, droughts, limited social services and shrinking incomes. Lupane District has in recent years struggled with erratic rainfall, poor road infrastructure and constrained access to healthcare facilities.

For beneficiaries, the assistance was both timely and appreciated.
“I am very grateful. This shows the MP is thinking about us,” said 72-year-old Luka Nyoni. “This will help us through the festive period.”
Another elderly villager, 68-year-old Gogo Nomagugu Ndlovu, said the gesture helped ease some of the burdens they face.
“With prices going up and no children nearby, life can be difficult. Being remembered like this means a lot,” she said.

Ward 3 Councillor Tendai Dube thanked Hon. Sibanda for the intervention, saying it would go a long way in assisting vulnerable households, while also stressing the importance of sustainable development.
“We appreciate this initiative. At the same time, as leaders we must continue advocating for long-term solutions such as better health facilities, irrigation projects and improved infrastructure,” he said.

Hon. Sibanda has in recent months been involved in several constituency programmes, including water projects and efforts to support smallholder farmers. Residents say while such interventions bring short-term relief, continued investment in lasting development remains crucial for improving livelihoods in Lupane West.