Faith Ndou
MASVINGO CITY-Doves Funeral Services has donated six toilet seats to the Roman Catholic Church’s St Mary’s Cathedral in Masvingo in support of the church’s ongoing construction of a modern ablution facility.
The handover ceremony was held at the church premises and was attended by Fr. Cuthbert Mavedzenge Parish Administrator for St Peter and Paul/ St Mary’s Cathedral under the leadership of Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa OF Masvingo Diocese as well as members of the fundraising development committee.
Speaking at the donation ceremony, Doves Regional Marketing Supervisor Tanyaradzwa Chiweshe said the company was honoured to partner with an institution with a long standing legacy of service.
Highlighting the shared history between the two institutions, Chiweshe said, “The Roman Catholic Church is one of the few institutions older than Doves, and that speaks to a legacy of service and commitment. As a company founded in 1902, we understand the importance of institutions that stand the test of time.”
“The Catholic Church is not just a religious body, it is part of the fabric of Zimbabwe. Through education, health services and community work, it has shaped generations. We are pleased to associate ourselves with an institution that continues to serve communities with dedication.”
Chiweshe highlighted the company’s commitment to community support.
“This donation is a small contribution towards supporting the dignity and comfort of the congregation,” he said.
St Mary’s Cathedral fundraising committee chairperson Staywell Katuri expressed gratitude for the gesture saying the donation had come at a crucial time.
“Your gesture has shown us that you have heard our cries. May God grant you the heart to continue such a noble gesture,” said Katuri.
Katuri added that the ablution facility is almost 80% complete and once completed it will feature modern amenities for both men and women.
The men’s section will include VIP section for Priests, four toilet seats, four showers and urinary while the women’s section will have eight toilet seats, four showers and a baby changing room.
The facility will also cater for people with disabilities, with accessible toilets and showers for both males and females as well as a ramp to ensure wheelchair access.
Additional features will include ceiling installation while the sewer line and lighting systems have already been installed.
Katuri highlighted that the project has so far been funded through a golf tournament that raised US$6 000 and several fundraising events held by the church last year.
To date, approximately US$27 000 has been invested in the project and the estimated total cost is expected to reach about US$48 000 up to roofing level.
Katuri said the church has since launched a donation campaign dubbed “Donate a Box of Tiles” to help complete the interior tiling of the facility.
