By Beatific Gumbwanda
CHIREDZI – Chiredzi Central Member of Parliament Ropafadzo Makumire last week hosted an inaugural Mother’s Day celebration at Westwood Lodge, honouring hundreds of mothers in his constituency for their selfless love, sacrifice, and immense contribution to society.The event brought together mothers from across the constituency, with discussions centred on the critical role women play as the last line of defence in the fight against drug and substance abuse and child prostitution. Makumire also used the occasion to listen to challenges faced by mothers in their daily lives, pledging to escalate their concerns to Parliament.Motivational speaker and Hippo Valley High School teacher Margaret Chimambo addressed the gathering on the importance of mothers in shaping the futures of their children and the nation at large. She urged mothers to love their children unconditionally, regardless of the circumstances those children find themselves in, and to celebrate their academic achievements as a form of encouragement.“You will feel the pain of having a child who falls pregnant, but do not blame those who have gone through it. Do not give up on children taking substances and drugs; one day they will listen to your voices as mothers, through the umbilical bond you share with them. Do not belittle your children whenever they produce poor results, as it causes unnecessary divisions that will affect them as they grow up. Older children should not be reprimanded in front of younger ones, because they deserve the respect befitting their position. Always reward children when they perform well in school it will motivate them throughout their lives,” said Chimambo.In his remarks, Makumire praised mothers for their resilience and dedication before presenting each attendee with a Mother’s Day gift of 10 kilograms of mealie meal.“This programme was organized at a short notice, but I want to thank you all for attending. I became an opposition MP after the 2023 elections, and I now represent everyone. Some people are reluctant to attend meetings I organise, and that is wrong. “I want to appreciate all of you as women, because you are the last line of defence in the fight against drug and substance abuse. Continue taking good care of my brothers and sisters,” said Makumire.Women at the event also raised concerns about the state of public health facilities, citing shortages of medicines and equipment, including ultrasound scanners for pregnant women, and called for improved services for those who cannot afford private healthcare.
