Bothwell Chabarika
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Headquarters 4 Infantry Brigade last Saturday organised a well-subscribed fundraising dinner at Flamboyant Hotel, attracting many notable businesses and personalities in Masvingo province.
The event was part of the Commander Defence Forces Executive Interaction Initiative (CDF EII) which is a brainchild of now ZDF commander, General Philip Valerio Sibanda.
The initiative is running under the theme ‘Committed to Donate Towards the Less Privileged Members of Society.’
The Minister of Education Sports and Culture Professor Amon Murwira graced the event as the guest of honour.
Other dignitaries present included Chief Fortune Charumbira, Lovemore Mandima, Zanu PF provincial chairperson Ezra Chadzamira, Masvingo provincial Administrator (PA) Fungai Mbetsa, Masvingo North MP Davis Marapira, Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer commanding Masvingo province; Snr Ass Com Social Ndanga and other members of the Joint Operations Command (Joc).
CDF EII Masvingo Chapter deputy patron, Colonel Blessing Maraire, who is also the deputy commander 4 Infantry Brigade, stood in for 4 Infantry Brigade Commander, Brig Gen Exsebious Tshuma.
The fundraising dinner complemented other efforts of the National Organising Committee of the Commander ZDF EII.
Proceeds are distributed to the defence forces charities namely, Tsanga Lodge Rehabilitation Centre, Widows and Orphans Benevolent Fund, ZDF Benevolent Fund, Army Schools Welfare Trust and Army Patients Welfare Fund.
Apart from that, some non-military charity cases in the province will also benefit from the proceeds which were raised during the dinner.
Many companies representatives and individuals who came to the dinner made commitments to contribute towards the target of raising US$50 000.
Such organisations as N. Richards Group, Nyaradzo Funeral Services, FMC, POSB, Renco Mine, Masvingo City Council, Bilcro, Jadecon Construction & Engineering were represented.
Dr Fredrick Kasese, who was the director of ceremony, challenged the gathering to contribute to the cause, saying left overs for one constituted a whole meal for others.
Entertainment was provided by army band 4 Lions Band which gave a polished act each time they were given a chance to perform. Most notable in the band was Private Rubinda Bonita who charmed the crowd through his impressive dance moves.
Other CDF EII programmes that have been lined up CDF EII are a fun shoot and ruffle draw to be held on September 07, 2018 at Mushandike Ranch and a golf tournament at Masvingo Golf Course on September 22.local
