The Dawn of a New Life

Welcome to Mashambanzou Care Trust

In the Shona language of Zimbabwe, there is a word for the early hours of dawn when elephants take their morning bath. It is "Mashambanzou". The word is also used symbolically and speaks poignantly of new beginnings.

Mashambanzou Care Trust aspires to shepherd those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS through the dark night of loneliness, fear, hunger, stigma and discrimination so that they may walk confidently into the dawn of a new life, filled with hope.

This hope is given vivid expression by Tatenda Muchiriri in his poem "It's Not Over Until It's Over", in which he speaks about the AIDS pandemic that affects his homeland.

(P) Robin Truesdale

BEAUTY

Beauty was emaciated and fragile when she was admitted to the Mashambanzou Care Unit for treatment. From her history, it was obvious that even during her illness she had decided to start a 'New Life' and make what was left of this one count.

Tatenda was born on the 21st. November 2007 at 0120 hours after an exciting and almost pain-free labour. Beauty and staff were totally overwhelmed and overjoyed, particularly when baby Tatenda gave her first cry. Both mother and baby are going from strength to strength. Beauty is on anti-retroviral treatment and is looking forward to living a long life with her beautiful daughter.

Tatenda may never experience her father's love as he has abandoned the family.