China Hunan Association Donates Groceries, Pledges School for Children With Disabilities in Epworth

The China Hunan Association in Zimbabwe has donated groceries to families of children with disabilities in Epworth and pledged US$50 000 to build an inclusive classroom block at Chinamano Council Primary School (image source)

Harare — The China Hunan Association in Zimbabwe, working with the China Medical Team, has donated groceries worth more than US$4 000 to 100 parents of children with disabilities in Epworth’s Spillway suburb and pledged to build an inclusive classroom block at Chinamano Council Primary School.

The annual Christmas outreach included the distribution of food hampers and the provision of free medical screenings for children and caregivers. During the event, the association announced a US$50 000 infrastructure project that will see the construction of a classroom block designed to cater for learners with physical and learning disabilities. The planned facility will include classrooms, shower rooms, toilets, kitchens and sleeping quarters.

Association chairperson Zhuolin Song said the initiative was aimed at long-term empowerment rather than short-term relief. “We are committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with disabilities,” he said, adding that education remained central to building resilient communities.

Local organisations, including the Zimbabwe Parents Living with Children with Disabilities and the Zimbabwe National Association of the Handicapped, assisted in identifying beneficiaries. Chinamano Council Primary School head Jefias Mateo and community leaders welcomed the pledge, saying the planned infrastructure would help address persistent gaps in facilities for children with special needs.

Members of the China Medical Team conducted health screenings and issued referrals for follow-up treatment at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals where necessary. Parents described the support as timely, particularly ahead of the festive season, while community representatives called for complementary improvements such as better sanitation, electricity supply and wall repairs at the school.

Walter Chanaka, managing director of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, said the initiative reflected the value of people-to-people cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations and supporting community development.

The combined humanitarian support and infrastructure commitment highlight the growing role of targeted philanthropy in supplementing public services and advancing inclusive education in underserved communities.