By Ndumiso Tshuma
The Jairos Jiri Arts and Craft Centre in Bulawayo, a renowned hub for empowering people with disabilities, has collaborated with My Beautiful Home to renovate and repaint the building’s exterior.
This project aims to transform the centre into a major tourist attraction, attracting local and international visitors.
The project was made possible through a partnership with the German Embassy, which also created an additional workspace for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony last week, Steve Goremcheche, representing the Jairos Jiri Craft Shop, said the rebranding aims to promote the association’s vision: to see people with disabilities as full contributors to Zimbabwe’s development.
He added that the centre serves over 18 000 people with disabilities annually through outreach, follow-up, and integration programs, providing treatment, care, and education to children and adults.
“The programs include schools, clinics, income-generating projects, and scholarships for children with disabilities,” explained Goremcheche. “Funds from sales will be used to improve the lives of people with disabilities.”
Pathisa Nyathi, one of the founders of My Beautiful Home, spoke about the organisation’s mission to revive the tradition of painting. The program, which began with just 35-40 women, now boasts over 800 participants engaged in arts and crafts.
“My Beautiful Home started in 2014,” said Nyathi. “Painting homes is an old visual art tradition that was declining. We started with Veronica Attalla and Professor John Knight. The standard of work and quality have been progressively improving. Art is critical as an expressive culture. We should appreciate that art tells the story and history of people, their thoughts, and their values.”
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart highlighted that the displayed art not only showcases the region’s cultural significance but also emphasises the responsibility of the city and national leadership to promote and project this art form.
“It’s our responsibility to project this art,” said Coltart. “It can benefit the world, our GDP, and the lives of these artists.”
Coltart said the exhibition, made possible through his long-standing personal relationship with the German Ambassador, is set to become a major tourist attraction, showcasing the region’s unique artistic talent and promoting cross-cultural exchange.
The event also raised awareness about preserving cultural heritage and promoting inclusive economic development.
