By Julius Idrissa Manganda
Alhuda Orphanage, located in Badala Village, Inyathi, is planning to expand its accommodation facilities and undertake renovations aimed at improving living conditions for orphaned children under its care.
The orphanage recently held its second annual fundraising event at Barham Green Masjid in Bulawayo, an initiative designed to mobilise resources for the institution’s day-to-day upkeep and to support future development projects.
Founded in 2018, the orphanage is home to 22 children, including both primary and secondary school students. It operates solely on donations from family members, friends, and generous well-wishers.
Chief among these projects is the construction of a separate dormitory to cater for the growing number of children being accommodated at the facility.
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Isaac Ali, the founder of the orphanage, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all those who attended and supported the cause.
“We want to thank everyone who is here to support this cause Muslim and non-Muslim. Kindness has no religion. Every dollar donated today will go directly to Alhuda Orphanage, to support our orphans and fund towards renovations,” said Sheikh Isaac Ali.
The fundraiser featured various stalls offering items for sale, including children’s clothes, Islamic attire, household goods, and snacks. The initiative combined community engagement with economic empowerment.
“I’m selling gowns, pins, and scarves. We’re here to support the orphanage and ensure that the children go to school and have enough food,” said Mrs. Patuma Phiri.
“I have beads, hijabs, and shoes. I’m here to support this noble cause of looking after vulnerable children and to advertise my products as well,” added Mrs. Salama Salmini.
Mrs. Fatima Yasini was selling dolls, chillies, and scarves, with all proceeds meant to support the orphans.
The event emphasized the role of Barham Green Masjid as a growing hub for Muslim community events in Bulawayo and highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in supporting orphans and other vulnerable members of society.
The orphanage continues to seek donations to cover school fees, uniforms, stationery, food, and shelter for the children in its care.
“This function is very important as it helps us raise funds. Our orphanage is about 60km from here, and this is our second annual fundraiser,” said Aunty Faridha Cassim, the last surviving trustee of Alhuda Orphanage.
The expansion drive comes amid increasing demand for child care services, highlighting the orphanage’s commitment to providing a safe, dignified, and supportive environment for vulnerable children.
“We plan to build a separate dormitory for boys and girls. The organisation has no sponsors it relies entirely on family, friends, and well-wishers, Alhamdulillah, we make dua (prayer) for today’s success,” said Aunty Faridha Cassim.
“As I always say, let’s go MAD meaning ‘Make A Difference’ in our communities. Let’s support Sheikh Isaac and his wife Shariah, who are doing an excellent job. Our lovely children need not only food but also school uniforms, fees, and stationery. We kindly ask for your humble support,” she further said.
