By Own Correspondent| The world’s richest traditional healer, Sekuru Banda has initiated a programme to donate groceries, cash and surgical masks to the elderly to cushion them from effects of the 21-day lockdown announced by the government.

In an interview with ZimEye after making his first donation in Mbare today, Sekuru Banda said the elderly need support and assistance during this lockdown period as most of them do not have means to survive in the absence of economic activities.

“Lets help those in need especially during this lockdown period, there is no economic activity happening right now and such situations affect the vulnerable more than anyone else,” said Sekuru Banda.

“This is a nationwide programme which will be taken to all corners of the country and is targeted at people who are over 60 years old, we will give me them groceries inclusive of mealie-meal, cooking oil, soaps and face masks.

“On top of that we will give them ZWL$1000 to cater for other needs,” added Sekuru Banda.

He hailed government efforts to curb the spread of the deadly virus through a lockdown, urging citizens to take heed of state orders and stay at home.

“We thank the government for the steps they have taken to curb the spread of the deadly disease, citizens must comply as this is the only way to deal with the pandemic,” he added.

Sekuru Banda is famed for his philanthropic work which includes donating to orphanages and the poor in society.

He has also assisted comedian-cum-musician Freddy Manjalima better known as Kapfupi with musical instruments when he started his music career.

‘He was recently listed at the most influential religious leader in the country ahead of Ezekiel Guti, Emmanuel Makandiwa and Walter Magaya.