harare24dmin Senior Reporter
Mpopoma Area 1 residents have received a major boost after businessman and philanthropist Pardon Tapfumaneyi, the President of PT Foundation, donated funds towards the purchase of a long-awaited electricity transformer, responding to a desperate community appeal for help.
For months, residents of Area 1 have endured persistent power challenges that left large sections of the suburb in darkness, affecting safety, livelihoods, and the education of school-going children. The situation prompted the community to mobilise resources and establish a fundraising committee, which then publicly appealed for assistance to well-wishers and development partners.
Their cry did not go unheard.
Mr Tapfumaneyi, known for his community-centred philanthropy, moved swiftly to support the initiative, injecting much-needed funds that have now brought the transformer project within reach. The donation has been widely welcomed as a turning point for the suburb.
Chairperson of the Fundraising Committee for the Purchase of the Transformer, Mr BD Khumalo, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community.
> “As Area 1 residents, we are deeply thankful to Mr Pardon Tapfumaneyi for hearing our cry and responding with action. We are excited and encouraged by this gesture. May God bless where he took the money from so that he continues working for the community and helping many more people,” said Khumalo.
Speaking on the intervention, Mr Tapfumaneyi reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development and collective problem-solving, emphasizing that sustainable change is built through partnership with communities.
“I want to assure the residents of Mpopoma that I will continue working with you to collectively solve the many challenges facing your community. This initiative is not just about a transformer; it is about restoring dignity. Electricity will help reduce crime by lighting up dark areas, allow children to study at night, and help restore Mpopoma Area 1 to the standard community it deserves to be,” Tapfumaneyi said.
Residents believe the installation of the transformer will significantly improve security, enhance educational outcomes, and revive social and economic activity in the area. Community leaders also noted that the gesture has renewed hope and strengthened unity among residents.
The intervention by PT Foundation once again underscores the critical role of private philanthropy in complementing public efforts, particularly in urban communities grappling with infrastructure challenges.
