By Dumisani Ndlovu
Undeterred by the unfriendly economic environment in Zimbabwe the rebranded Multi-AID Support Organisation (MASO) says is set to spread its wings to other provinces.
The organization which rebranded from the name Midlands Aids Service Organisation in November 2023 is optimistic will expand to other provinces nationwide.
Addressing members at MASO’s 33rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the 8th of May 2024,MASO Board Chairperson Dr. Victor Wasara, said the Change of Name from Midlands AIDS Service Organisation to Multi-AID Support Organisation retaining the same acronym was finally approved in November 2023 after 3 years having submitted the application.
“Despite transforming from Midlands Aids Service Organisation to Multi-AID Support Organisation, MASO will retain the same acronym and Registration PVO No 18/91. What the change means is that the New MASO is going to implement interventions outside Midlands Province incorporating other developmental issues in order to be relevant to the needs of our communities. MASO has rebranded with a new logo as you can see on the Banner,” said Dr. Wasara.
He said the New-look MASO was established to provide inclusive, dynamic, multi-faceted and innovative community-driven interventions for sustainable development through capacity enhancement and strengthening of communities, not only in Midlands but in Zimbabwe at large.
The seemingly cheerful, Dr Wasara urged all members, staff and stakeholder to embrace and promote the organisation’s strategic plan which he said intend to see the growth and expansion of the organisation.
Through funding form OAK Foundation, the MASO developed a new 5 year strategic plan with input from various stakeholders including National AIDS Council and Ministry of Health & Child Care. The 2-day Workshop facilitated by Dr Chakunda from Midlands State University culminated in the following Strategic Pillars: Climate Change, Health and Well-Being, Environmental Sustainability, Public Policy and Research, Documentation and Publications.
“May I call upon all members and stakeholders to support this strategic move as the organisation is transitioning? Its vision is to see resilient communities able to survive various shocks for sustainable development,” he said.
MASO’s current board chairperson, Dr. Wasara also took the opportunity to praise retired MASO Chief Executive Officer, Ticharwa Shayne Masimira for his continued support and advice.
“We thank former MASO CEO, Mr Masimira for continuously supporting us .He was with us at the unveiling of the re-branding MASO event as guest of Honour. It is important, we know that we are not alone in this life transforming journey,” he said.