bnr_12. PEDZISAI: 10 YEARS

12. PEDZISAI: 10 YEARS

Pedzisai is a 10-year-old boy from rural Bikita, Zimbabwe, who was born without hands but has learned to write using his mouth and toes. In April 2019, Priviladge Mahamba, a concerned teacher at Vushe Primary School where Pedzisai is a student, reached out to Hope for Zimbabwe Children for help. Pedzisai’s parents, Florence (35) and Emmanuel Maheya (44), are unemployed and rely on community handouts to survive. Out of their five children, three are unable to attend school due to the family’s inability to afford school fees and other educational expenses. The family also struggles to pay for Pedzisai’s school fees, uniforms, textbooks, and stationery. When Pedzisai was 3 years old, his parents took him to a doctor at Silveira Mission Hospital, but the doctor did not recommend artificial hands at that time, as Pedzisai was too young, and poorly fitted artificial limbs could be painful. Since then, the family has not received any further assistance. Pedzisai’s mother expressed the family’s desire to access specialist medical care for artificial hands, purchase a custom chair and other necessary equipment, and secure long-term support for his education, including school fees, uniforms, and stationery. Despite his challenges, Pedzisai is talented in soccer, though he lacks a proper sports kit.Hope for Zimbabwe Children also consulted the headmistress of Vushe Primary School, Mrs. Mekitilda Matenga-Makuku, who highlighted the school’s broader needs, such as funds for improving the grounds to be more child-friendly, cement for terracing, pavement ramps, and resources for a computer lab, furniture, and more housing for teachers. The school also requires textbooks, stationery, and funds for other students’ school fees. In response, Hope for Zimbabwe Children donated zw$700 to cover Pedzisai’s school uniform, sports kit, stationery, levies, and school fees.

Pedzisai’s story is both inspiring and heartbreaking. Despite being born without hands, his determination to adapt and succeed, using his mouth and toes to write, reflects his resilience. It’s evident that his family, particularly his parents Florence and Emmanuel Maheya, face immense challenges, not only in caring for Pedzisai but also in providing for his education and that of his siblings. With limited resources and no stable income, they rely heavily on community support. The teacher, Priviladge Mahamba, who reached out to Hope for Zimbabwe Children, demonstrated great compassion, recognizing Pedzisai’s potential and advocating for his needs. The organization’s involvement and the zw$700 donation are significant first steps, yet there remains a long road ahead in terms of getting Pedzisai the specialist medical care, artificial hands, custom chair, and educational support he requires. Additionally, the broader issues at Vushe Primary School, such as infrastructure improvements, computer labs, and adequate housing for teachers, highlight the systemic challenges facing many rural schools in Zimbabwe. These improvements, while aimed at benefiting all students, would also enhance Pedzisai’s learning environment, making the school more accessible and supportive. In the long term, coordinated efforts between community members, organizations like Hope for Zimbabwe Children, and possible international support could help address both Pedzisai’s personal needs and the school’s broader challenges. Raising awareness through social media or local initiatives might also generate the financial and logistical backing needed to secure Pedzisai’s future.

Pedzisai’s story is a poignant illustration of resilience and the challenges faced by families in rural Zimbabwe, especially those with children who have special needs. His determination to pursue education and sports despite his physical challenges is truly inspiring.As highlighted, Pedzisai’s family is struggling to provide for their basic needs and the educational requirements for all their children. Given that the family’s financial means stem from community support, the need for sustainable assistance is critical. Pedzisai’s access to necessary medical care, including specialist consultations for artificial hands, is vital to improving his quality of life and increasing his independence.Additionally, the support for Vushe Primary School from Hope for Zimbabwe Children indicates a broader need for infrastructural improvement in educational facilities. The issues faced by Mrs. Mekitilda Matenga – Makuku in securing adequate resources for the school echo the struggles of many educational institutions in rural areas where funding is limited. With the zw$700 donation already made for Pedzisai’s school fees, uniforms, and sports kit, it’s a positive step towards ensuring that he has the necessary support to thrive in school and sports. Through collective efforts, we can contribute towards a bright future for Pedzisai and other children in similar situations, ensuring they receive the education, medical care, and community support they need to realize their potential. Hope for Zimbabwe Children is making a positive impact in Pedzisai’s life by addressing not only his immediate educational needs but also considering his health and well-being. Pedzisai’s resilience in writing and participating in school activities is truly inspiring, especially given the challenges he faces. To ensure a sustainable approach to help Pedzisai and his family, it would be beneficial for Hope for Zimbabwe Children to focus on several key areas and continued efforts to provide:

  • Medical Assistance: Help to connect Pedzisai and his family with specialists who can assess and possibly provide him with artificial hands, as well as any other medical needs.
  • Educational Support: Ongoing financial support for his school fees, textbooks, and stationery, ensuring he can continue his education uninterrupted.
  • Sports Development: Assistance in obtaining proper sports kits and equipment, allowing him to engage fully in sports activities.
  • Community Outreach and Awareness: Fostering a culture of inclusion and support for families with children who have disabilities, this can help challenge stigmas and improve community involvement.
  • Infrastructure Improvements: Supporting Vushe Primary School with funding for necessary improvements such as proper classrooms, furniture, and teaching resources, benefiting all students.
  • Medical Support: As Pedzisai requires specialized medical care, efforts should be put into locating reputable medical professionals who can assess his condition and provide options for artificial hands. Fundraising or partnerships with organizations specializing in prosthetics could be explored to facilitate this.
  • Education Accessibility: Continuing to provide financial assistance for Pedzisai’s education is crucial. Hope for Zimbabwe Children could consider establishing a scholarship fund specifically for Pedzisai and potentially for other children in similar circumstances to ensure they receive education without the burden of fees.
  • Community Support and Awareness: Engaging the local community to raise awareness about Pedzisai’s situation and the challenges faced by vulnerable families may elicit further support. It might be beneficial to organize community fundraising events or initiatives that allow locals to contribute, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and assistance.
  • School Development: Addressing the needs of Vushe Primary School, as highlighted by Mrs. Mekitilda Matenga – Makuku, is essential for creating a better learning environment for all students. Hope for Zimbabwe Children could work towards a long-term plan to improve school facilities, including the creation of a computer lab and providing necessary resources like textbooks and stationery.
  • Support for the Family: Beyond Pedzisai’s educational needs, assistance for the entire Maheya family can help alleviate their financial burden. This could involve connecting them with local resources for food security, employment opportunities, or skill development programs.
  • Sports and Recreation: Given Pedzisai’s interest in soccer, an initiative to provide sports equipment and foster sports programs at the school could cultivate his talent and enhance his self-esteem. Partnering with local sports clubs or organizations for support and equipment donation could be advantageous. By taking a holistic approach, Hope for Zimbabwe Children can make a lasting difference in Pedzisai’s life and the lives of others in the community who face similar challenges. It’s not just about immediate assistance; it’s about fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.