By TellZim Reporter
A 15-year-old boy from Vakai Village in Mwenezi West is appealing for public assistance to continue his education, as a physical disability makes the journey to school a painful and difficult daily challenge.
Apindiraishe Sibheyi, a learner at Makugwe Primary School, walks nearly two kilometers each day to attend classes, a journey that often leaves him exhausted and struggling with punctuality.
His father, Tinevimbo Sibheyi, explained that without a reliable mobility aid, his son finds it hard to keep up with both school activities and daily routines.
“The most interesting story about Apindiraishe is his passion and dedication to school work despite the hardships and barriers surrounding his potential.
“We stay a distance away from the school, which at times affects his studies due to punctuality problems arising from the tiresome walk. In order to go around school activities, Apindiraishe needs a bicycle or any kind of mobility aid to assist him walking,” said Tinevimbo.
He added that well-wishers could also help by enrolling Apindiraishe in a special needs school, noting that his son exudes remarkable confidence despite his disability and young age.
“Apindiraishe has a lot of confidence and is one person who can meander through a stigmatized society despite his young age and disability,” he said. “He is bright in school and even outshines others in chess. His creativity and intelligence are clear.”
As an unemployed father of six, including Apindiraishe who has special needs, Tinevimbo struggles to provide for his family.
Community advocates in Mwenezi say Apindiraishe’s situation reflects the broader challenges faced by children with disabilities in rural areas, who often lack access to mobility aids, school support services, and specialized institutions.
“Apindiraishe is not an isolated case of great potential in Mwenezi. We used to have Paul Matavire who became a musical legend despite his disability. Helping Apindiraishe is not only an act of kindness but an investment in a promising future. We would appreciate any kind of assistance from well-wishers to assist him because of the potential that he has,” said one advocate.
Well-wishers who wish to assist can contact his father, Tinevimbo Sibheyi, at 0716 082 688 or reach out on 077 459 8447.
