Local charity, Love Zimbabwe, run by David and Martha Holman are currently in the process of building a library/learning centre at the charity’s community centre in Domboshawa, Zimbabwe.
This idea became reality, when in 2016 on one of their regular visits to the country, Martha and David consulted a local builder, and drew up plans to construct the building. When it is complete, the structure will house 4 computer rooms, a ‘quiet’ lounge for studying and a large shelved area to house books. The need for this facility was identified two years ago, when Martha and David talked to local people and the Community centre committee, who spoke about the frustration of not being able to afford to send their children to school. The impact of this lack of education creates a vicious circle of poverty. Children growing up with no literacy have no chance of getting any of the few jobs that are available. The solution suggested by the locals was for us to raise money to build the learning centre, which would be open to all for self-improvement.
Love Zimbabwe have been fortunate to receive donations from The Methodist Church in Castle Street, Abergavenny who raised money during last year’s Food Festival. Students from Lampeter University have also contributed money to further the construction. Other funding came from Monmouth Rotary Club who last year provided raffle tickets for Love Zimbabwe to sell. This raised over £300.There is a new round of raffle tickets available this year, and the hope is to raise a similar amount. The Rotary Club of Abergavenny also made a welcome contribution. This money will not complete the building but will go a long way to help.
Martha and David will be hosting their annual fund- raising event at their house on Saturday June 16th to raise more funding, this time to put a roof on the building.
Confirmed for the event so far are singers, Kizzy Crawford and Sarah-Jane Morris.
At 2:30pm on Friday 20th April, at the King’s Arms, Abergavenny,NP7 5AA, the charity will launch their Book Bonanza event. People will be encouraged to donate unwanted books for the library in Zimbabwe. Giving their support on the day will be Mayoress of Abergavenny, Councillor Penny Simcock and Nick Ramsay, AM for Monmouthshire.
The event is also supported by Lucie Parkin and will be included as part of the Abergavenny Writing Festival which runs from April 19th- 21st at the King’s Arms.
Homemakers in Abergavenny have agreed to provide dry storage for the books until next year when they will be transported to Zimbabwe.
There will also be an official launch at the Welsh Assembly building at the beginning of the following week.
Books needed fall into the following categories- children’s. educational, geographical, historical, books on Africa, languages, and anything else that may be suitable.
If you have any books to donate, please contact either David or Martha Holman on- 07774608215 / 07879400897 or martha.fairtrade@gmail.com You can also drop of books directly to Homemakers (Gasworks Yard).
David Holman
