By Elizabeth Chitengo
30th June 2026
The Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe proudly
celebrates the remarkable success of the
ROHR Zimbabwe BBQ Fundraiser, held on
Saturday, 27 June 2026, at The White Hart,77 Westgate End, WF2 9RL, Wakefield.
More than a social gathering, this historic event became a powerful expression
of solidarity, compassion, and the unwavering commitment of Zimbabweans across
the United Kingdom to defend human rights and restore hope to vulnerable
communities back home.
The outstanding turnout reflected the strength and
determination of a diaspora community that refused to turn away from injustice.
It demonstrated that although we may be separated by thousands of miles, we
remain united by our shared responsibility to protect the dignity, rights, and well-being
of those most at risk.
This year's fundraiser was dedicated to supporting two
critical humanitarian initiatives: the Bulawayo Shelter for the Girl Child,
which provides refuge, protection, and hope for girls escaping abuse,
exploitation, and homelessness, and the Mutare People Living with Albinism
Support Programme, which champions the rights, inclusion, and dignity of people
living with albinism who continue to face discrimination, stigma, and social
exclusion.
Throughout the day, the venue came alive with music,
cultural performances, energetic dancing, and the infectious spirit of Gotchi
Gotchi. Yet behind every smile, every performance, and every celebration was a
profound purpose—to stand together for justice, equality, and the protection of
fundamental human rights.
The event also served as an important platform for
networking and collaboration, bringing together human rights defenders,
community leaders, professionals, supporters, and members of the Zimbabwean
diaspora to strengthen partnerships and reaffirm our collective commitment to
social justice and sustainable community development.
ROHR Zimbabwe extends its deepest appreciation to every
individual who attended, donated, volunteered, performed, sponsored, and
supported this initiative. Your generosity is more than financial support—it is
an investment in human dignity. It is a declaration that vulnerable girls
deserve safety, that people living with albinism deserve equality and
protection, and that no member of our society should ever be forgotten.
As human rights defenders, we recognise that our work
does not end with one successful event. The challenges facing vulnerable
communities in Zimbabwe remain significant, but so too does our resolve. Every
contribution made, every partnership formed, and every voice raised strengthens
our movement for justice and brings us closer to a society where the rights of
every individual are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
This fundraiser reminded us of a simple but profound
truth: when ordinary people unite around extraordinary values, they become a
force capable of transforming lives.
We therefore call upon Zimbabweans across the globe, our
friends, partners, and all people of goodwill, to continue standing with us.
Together, we can provide protection where there is vulnerability, hope where
there is despair, and opportunity where there has been exclusion.
The struggle for human rights is not the responsibility
of a few—it is the collective duty of us all.
Together, we are stronger.
Together, we defend human rights.
Together, we restore hope.
Together, we transform lives.
Aluta Continua. Victory is certain.
Pictures and videos taken at the event can be viewed via the following hyperlink;-
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rohr_zimbabwe__manchester/albums/72177720334445987/
About the author
Elizabeth Chitengo is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom.
She is in the South Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights
(ROHR) Zimbabwe. She can be contacted by email at elizabethchitengo98@gmail.com