Ecobank, the pan-African bank, has invested at least US$50 000 towards Mother of Peace Orphanage in Mutoko as part of their corporate social responsibility.
The initiative which dates back to 2015 between Ecobank and Mother of Peace saw the refurbishment of two homes for children, a library and provision of text and exercise books.
“We have also mobilised food stuffs and other materials to bring cheer to the children this festive season.
“Our total support for this year is valued at US$50 000. Many Ecobankers have given their time to be here to support these activities. In addition staff have also made personal donations of clothing, books and other items to support the initiative.
“I’m sure you will agree this shows how strongly we all feel about giving back to our local communities. It makes me very proud of both the bank I represent and the lifeblood — our staff,” Ecobank board chairman Mr Chisango said.
Mr Chisango toured the orphanage before he handed over the groceries to mark the Ecobank Day which is celebrated every year in all 33 African countries where the bank operates from.
This year’s theme was: “Supporting Young Lives — It’s your day to make a difference.”
Recently, Ecobank partnered with the Ministry of Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry by donating one hectare of fruit trees and another hectare of gum trees woodlot at Umzururu Priamry School.
During the year, the bank also responded to the call for support by the Government on cholera epidemic by providing cash and water treatment chemicals to the tune of US$200 000.
Mother of Peace is home to 40 orphans and according to Unicef, an orphan is a child under the age of 18 who has lot one or both parents, no matter what the cause of death.
Globally there are 140 million orphans and 52 million live in Africa. At least 32 percent of orphans in Africa have a parent who died from AIDS.
