For years, I have struggled to get answers about a troubling issue. There was an orphanage called Mbuya Nehanda Children’s Home in Melfort, about 40 kilometers from Harare along the Harare-Mutare road. I heard it was closed in 2012 when the ZANU PF Women’s League claimed it as their property, stating they wanted to use it for their own projects. The place has since been rented out to Wilmar College.

But does anyone know what happened to the children who were living at that orphanage? Some of them ended up back on the streets, while others are currently staying at a farm called Citra Pottery, under the care of a Good Samaritan named Mr. Matanga. These children lack decent accommodation and adequate food. For them to attend school, Mr. Matanga has to request places at nearby schools like Melfort High, Rusununguko High, and Chiweshe Primary. While these schools understand the children’s difficult situation, there are still issues with obtaining basic needs like stationery, uniforms, and exam fees.

I have another question: is it true that Mbuya Nehanda Children’s Home belonged to the ZANU PF Women’s League? If so, what happened to the children’s belongings, such as cars, beds, chairs, desks, water tanks, and other movable assets?

What is the government doing to help these children? Does the First Lady, who is known for her philanthropic work, know about this situation? I grew up at that center myself, and back then, Mrs. Mugabe would often visit us, providing food, blankets, and school fees. Yet, I was surprised to hear that she was involved in renting out the place to Wilmar College — though I am not certain if that is true.

Anonymous letter to ZimEye