A life of an elderly woman in Zimbabwe who walked over 12 kilometres to deliver her little aid to victims of Cyclone Idai was dramatically elevated as her philanthropy was recognised and rewarded.
Zimbabwean business mogul Strive Masiyiwa who noticed the priceless act of compassion by the woman whose photo he had used on his earlier Facebook post announced he would build her a house at a place of her choice.
The billionaire with huge investments in the telecommunications industry also pledged KSh 100, 000 monthly allowance for the woman for the rest of her life following her contribution to the victims of the the cyclone which rocked several African countries resulting to over 700 deaths.
Masiyiwa’s reciprocation to the woman’s good deeds followed an observation by Facebook user Dzokerayi Mu. Mu reminded the tycoon he had used the woman’s photo to highlight how people had come out in large numbers to aid the cyclone victims but forgot to recognise her rare sacrifice. She had carried the little aid material she had on a sack stacked on her head and walked 12 kilometres from Mbare to Highlands, Harare to deliver the aid because she could not afford KSh 50 bus fare.
In his response to Mu, Masiyiwa said he would return good for good, acknowledging the woman as the face of pure generosity during the season of adversity. “She gave more than us all. What she did is one of the most remarkable acts of compassion I have ever seen. When this is over, I’m going to find her, and invite her to come and see me, if possible. I will spend time in prayer with her. Then I’ll build her house anywhere she wants in Zimbabwe,” said Masiyiwa.
He stated the house would have solar power and running water, reiterating he admired people who acted in times of crisis. “I will give her a monthly allowance of US dollars 1,000 for life. It is not about how much you have. How many young men, and even women in their cars watched her carry that sack, and never asked to help?” posed the billionaire.