ZANU PF Affiliate BOYS dzaMDARA Backs 120 Manicaland Students, Champions Reform and Social Impact

By Elizabeth Kucherera

Over 120 primary and secondary students in Manicaland are starting the new school term with renewed hope, thanks to a landmark school fees initiative from BOYS dzaMDARA—a ZANU PF affiliate group committed to “igniting possibility” and driving grassroots change.

The announcement, made at the group’s annual strategic conference at the Manica Sky View Hotel in Mutare, marks one of the largest educational support programs by a political affiliate in the province’s recent memory. For many families grappling with economic challenges, the scholarships are a lifeline, enabling children to remain in school and pursue their dreams.

“Education is the foundation of our future. Supporting these students is not just charity—it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders, teachers, and innovators,”** said John Batsirai, Provincial Chairperson of BOYS dzaMDARA Manicaland.

BOYS dzaMDARA’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. The group has rolled out several social development projects across Manicaland, including:

Installing solar power systems at ZANU PF party offices, promoting energy security and sustainability, food aid programs targeting vulnerable families, ensuring no one is left behind during challenging times.Community clean-up campaigns and youth empowerment workshops.

These initiatives are positioning BOYS dzaMDARA as a key player in local development, with a reputation for action-oriented service.

The conference, attended by both provincial and national leaders, served as a platform for reflection and renewal. Delegates acknowledged the need to shake off complacency and recommit to the group’s founding values.

“Structures must function, not quarrel. BOYS dzaMDARA has a duty to defend the President through action, organization, and service,” declared Mutare District Coordinator Mr. Tarwireyi Mabika, representing Manicaland ZANU PF Provincial Chair Tawanda Mukodza.

Mabika praised the affiliate for its hands-on approach, saying, “Communities are directly benefiting from your programs. You are one of the best affiliates in our party.”

A major theme of the gathering was financial discipline Treasurer Liberty Gumede (widely known as “Top Striker”) underscored that the group’s credibility hinges on sustainable funding.

“Without financial discipline, there can be no credibility. We must shift from ad-hoc donations to regular monthly subscriptions, ensuring we can cover essentials like office rent and staff salaries without always knocking on doors,” Gumede urged.

This shift is expected to stabilize operations and empower the group to expand its reach and impact.

BOYS dzaMDARA’s approach mirrors a growing trend among youth-focused political affiliates in Zimbabwe: combining practical community service with political engagement. Their work is fostering a new generation of leaders who see service as inseparable from politics.

The group’s reforms and programs are also in line with ZANU PF’s broader calls for organizational renewal and unity ahead of key national milestones.

As the 2025 school year progresses, BOYS dzaMDARA hopes to expand its scholarship program, attract more subscribers, and deepen its community partnerships.

“This is just the beginning. We are committed to lighting the way for Manicaland’s youth—one student, one community at a time,” said Batsirai.