Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Colonel Miniyothabo “Minnie” Baloyi-Chiwenga, has stepped forward to support the work of disabled musician and disability advocate Greatman, born Tongai Gwaze, following his recent public appeal for assistance. The Second Lady donated 20 wheelchairs and US$2,000 worth of fuel to assist his growing nationwide outreach programme, which aims to provide mobility support to people living with disabilities across Zimbabwe.
Greatman, who rose to prominence both through his music and his highly visible efforts to champion disability rights, has long been known for using personal resources to distribute wheelchairs to disadvantaged individuals in marginalised communities. His initiative, largely self-funded, has seen him travelling across provinces delivering mobility aids and raising awareness about the daily struggles faced by disabled Zimbabweans.
In recent weeks, he issued an appeal for help, citing increasing demand, rising transport costs, and the financial strain of sustaining a national campaign without institutional backing. Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga responded swiftly, making an unannounced visit to Greatman’s home in one of Harare’s most under-resourced neighbourhoods — a place he has lived for many years despite the physical difficulties imposed by his condition.
Residents who witnessed the visit described it as a powerful gesture, noting that it is unusual for a senior public figure to walk into such a high-density suburb without official fanfare. Many said the moment brought an unexpected sense of hope to a community that rarely receives visits from high-ranking officials.
The Second Lady arrived carrying wheelchairs of different sizes and specifications, meant for both children and adults. She also handed over US$2,000 worth of fuel coupons, a significant contribution to an outreach programme that relies heavily on transportation.
For Greatman, the encounter was emotional and deeply affirming.
“I never imagined the Second Lady of Zimbabwe would come to my neighbourhood, to my home,” he said after the visit. “She brought the wheelchairs, left money for fuel, and honoured the work we are doing. Sometimes you push and push, not knowing if anyone is even watching. Today I felt seen.”
Baloyi-Chiwenga Donates Wheelchairs During Visit to Greatman
Those close to Greatman said he has continued his philanthropic work despite personal hardships, limited resources, and occasional online criticism. His outreach programme has so far transformed the lives of hundreds of beneficiaries, many of whom had spent years immobile or dependent on caregivers due to lack of access to mobility equipment.
Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga’s visit was also welcomed by local community leaders, disability advocates, and residents, who praised her for taking time to engage directly with grassroots projects rather than limiting her involvement to formal events or public ceremonies.
A serving army colonel and respected professional in her own right, Baloyi-Chiwenga has increasingly become visible in public life, particularly on issues related to healthcare, disability inclusion, and community empowerment. Those in her circle say she is committed to “practical service,” preferring hands-on involvement in community initiatives rather than symbolic gestures.
In her remarks during the visit, she emphasised that her support was meant to reinforce, not overshadow, Greatman’s work.
“This initiative is driven by resilience, generosity, and a desire to uplift others,” she said. “We are here to support what Greatman has already started. Disability does not define a person’s contribution to society, and leadership is not only about policymaking — it is also about touching lives directly.”
The wheelchairs, she added, symbolise more than mobility; they represent dignity and independence.
For many beneficiaries of Greatman’s programme, mobility aids often mean the ability to attend school, go to work, or simply navigate daily life without relying entirely on others. In a country where disability services remain underfunded and often inaccessible, community-driven initiatives have become essential lifelines for thousands.
Greatman echoed this sentiment, saying the impact of the donation extends far beyond his own project.
“We move with dignity now,” he said. “Someone from the highest levels of leadership came here and told us we matter. This is not just about me — it’s about everyone who has waited years for help.”
Across social media and in disability advocacy circles, the donation has been widely praised as an example of compassionate leadership at a time when many vulnerable groups feel overlooked. Analysts and community organisers say the Second Lady’s gesture highlights the importance of direct, community-based interventions, particularly in a challenging economic climate where many households face rising healthcare and transport costs.
Baloyi-Chiwenga’s visit has also reignited discussion about the broader responsibilities of national leaders and public figures. While some praised her for setting a positive example, others urged government departments and local authorities to invest systematically in disability support systems rather than relying on individual acts of generosity.
Nonetheless, for Greatman and the hundreds of people who stand to benefit from the donation, the Second Lady’s engagement represents a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for inclusion and social recognition. Her visit reaffirmed that disability advocacy — long driven by individuals working with minimal support — can attract national backing when leaders connect with communities at ground level.
In the end, Greatman said the moment was not just about charity, but about validation.
“When leaders come to the people, they remind us that no one is forgotten,” he said. “Today, we felt remembered.”
Source- ZimEye
