- Zimbabwean songstress, Prudence Mabhena appointed Unicef Zimbabwe goodwill Ambassador.
By Wallace Mawire
: Differently abled Zimbabwean songstress, Prudence Mabhena has been appointed the new Unicef Zimbabwe goodwill Ambassador to work closely with the organization on advocacy to protect children from all forms of violence, particularly children with disabilities.
Micaela Marques de Sousa, Unicef Zimbabwe Chief of Communications says Mabhena has been given the befitting appointment in recognition of her genuine commitment to communicating strong and clear messages advocating for the rights of children with different forms of disability.
In being appointed goodwill Ambassador, Mabhena joins Zimbabwean singing legend Oliver Mutukudzi, appointed three months ago as regional goodwill Ambassador for Unicef, in using music to highlight issues affecting children in Zimbabwe and in the region.
“This appointment is in recognition of Prudence’s bold endeavours to use her vocal talent to speak on behalf of millions of Zimbabwean children,” says Unicef Representative in Zimbabwe Dr.Peter Salama.
He adds that her voice has provoked actions for children and has helped move Unicef’s work in Zimbabwe forward.
Unicef made the announcement of the appointment at the launch of Zimbabwe’s first National Scale Cash Grant Programme for Children and Families, an initiative set to cushion families in economic distress.
Families with people living with disability are among those identified as recipients of up to $25 per month as one of the mechanisms to help reduce household poverty and enhance child protection.
Born with a condition called Arthrogryphosis which has confined her to a wheelchair, Prudence has allowed her personal story to highlight the continued stigmatization and exclusion of children with disabilities in society.
Her music reflects on the neglect she experienced by her parents because of her condition and encourages love and protection of all children regardless of their physical condition.
In the oscar winning documentary film, ‘Music my Prudence’, Prudence relives her many hardships in life to encourage and empower young people living with disabilites.
“I am truly humbled by this appointment and accept the responsibilities which follow with this recognition,” said Prudence.
Since 2005, Prudence has performed as lead vocalist of the Liyana band, an Afro-fusion band composed of children with different forms of disabilities.They have toured Sweden,Holland and Belgium with her music after winning a prize in the International Music Crossroads.
In her new role as a national Unicef goodwill Ambassador, Prudence will continue to use her popularity, her music and her passion for children to support Unicef’s mission and work in Zimbabwe.
