Zebakwe Trust Funding!

The initial capital to launch Zebakwe Trust was in the form of immovable properties and cash donated by Zimbabwe Platinum Mines Limited (Zimplats) in 2002. This model had an inbuilt sustenance mechanism to ensure continuity. The Trust would generate income from leasing out the donated properties. In addition it (Trust) would augment income generated from real estate operations by other donations in cash and in kind from other well-wishers including individuals and corporates. However complications to do with the transfer of the properties into the name of the Trust and the fact that it did not take vacant possession at the time the donation was made has seen insignificant inflows from the real estate operations despite its potential. Of necessity the model has had to be adjusted so that the Trust is not hamstrung completely and blocked from executing its mandate. The board has sought to embark on alternative resources mobilisation. This strategy hinges on scouting for and partnering in building strategic partnerships. This not only assist in augmenting the Trust’s limited resources but it also makes up for the skills shortfall within the Trust secretariat as it has not been possible to have an expanded establishment in terms of skills base.

Fund raising initiatives

SIYB Program for Entrepreneurship development

The Trust has had to consider other income generating activities such as running the ILO certified and approved Start and Improve Your business (SIYB) programme at commercial rates. Other activities are being considered. The Trust also sources for sponsorship training of groups of women and youths to equip them with entrepreneurship skills. Where sponsors have been secured to cover training the cost of training will be covered by the sponsorship. However the Trust can also offer training to groups at subsidised rates as part of ensuring commitment to the program by the beneficiaries and for purposes of community development as an objective of the organisation. We will also work in partnership with churches, high schools and communities in general.

Horticultural project

Under this project the Trust is in the process of securing land working in partnership with Chegutu Municipality to run a horticulture project for the benefit of OVCs. It is hoped that proceeds from this project will also help build an education fund for the same beneficiaries.

Annual Marathon

The Trust aims to host an annual international marathon for purposes of fund raising to fund on going program activities in the communities where it operates such as education of OVCs, support of women’s’ programs, empowerment of communities, capacity building of community institutions and CBOs, financing of health programs such as purchase of drugs and equipment for community clinics. International celebrity athletes and interested individuals are invited to participate in this noble cause. Fundraising in done through registration fees, sponsorships, advertising rights, media coverage rights etc.

Annual Musical concert

This is aimed to be a premier annual musical event to raise funds in support of youths programs such as entrepreneurship developments, projects, education of OVCs. It will be hosted in collaboration with youth organisations for maximum effect. International artists who are interested to participate are invited to take part in contributing towards the noble cause.

Youth Internet café

The Trust will set up internet cafes at strategic places especially within the area where it operates as well as in cities around the country so as to enable young people to access information at nominal rates. All other members of the communities will access the internet by paying a fee. Revenues from this project will be used to sustain the project as well as contribute to the education fund. Internet cafes will be run by volunteers.

Youth Car wash

Youths within the urban centres in the districts where the Trust operates will run car wash days at specified locations as a way of fundraising in support of youth programs. Youths involved in this project will be volunteers registered with the Trust.

Radio program

Before this project takes off there is need for thorough ground work. The project is intended to bring together a number of parties including those involved in broadcasting services, mobile phone operators, CBOs, etc.

Volunteerism

Volunteerism is fundraising in kind. Individuals from all walks of life including those of various professions and occupations are encouraged to register with the Trust under any program of their choice run by the Trust. The Trust will set up databases of volunteers under respective programs. These volunteers will be contacted whenever necessary and they will also form part of the database of the organisation’s mailing list.

Strategic Partnerships

As a way of compensating for skills and financial resources shortage the Trust has seen it fit to craft strategic partnerships with willing and interested individuals, institutions and organisations in implementing program activities in the communities where it operates. In this regard the Trust extends an open invitation to individuals, institutions and organisations to consider partnering with it in executing of community projects. This way of doing things results in a win win situation for the partnering organisations.