Tinotenda Hove-ZANU PF legislator Exevia Maoneke has sparked mixed reactions after distributing educational equipment, food supplies and agricultural inputs in Chivi Central, with some residents welcoming the assistance while critics questioned the timing and motives behind the donations.

Speaking at Mupagamuri Primary School in Ward 19 on Friday, Maoneke handed over a smart board, 10 laptops, a printer, 10 computer mice, four soccer balls, as well as ballpoint pens and pencils for learners.

Community members who attended the event also received a packet of rice each, while Ward 19 Village Business Unit chairpersons were given 50kg bags of Top Fertiliser.

While beneficiaries welcomed the support, critics argued that such handouts have increasingly become associated with ZANU PF’s political strategy, saying they create goodwill without addressing persistent challenges such as unemployment, poorly resourced schools and struggling public services.

Addressing the gathering, Maoneke praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa and attributed the donations to the government’s development agenda.

“I would like to thank the Second Republic and President Emmerson Mnangagwa for championing inclusive development under the principle of ‘leaving no one and no place behind,'” Maoneke said.

He added that “the government’s development agenda continues to expand access to education and essential services across the country.”

However, observers maintain that while donations can provide immediate relief, they are not a substitute for long-term investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure and job creation.

They argue that sustained public funding and improved service delivery would have a more lasting impact on rural communities than periodic distributions of equipment, food and farming inputs.

The event has reignited debate over whether such initiatives represent genuine community development or serve as politically motivated programmes aimed at consolidating support in rural constituencies.