Exiled Zimbabweans pray for political change

From the archive, first published Sunday 29th Apr 2007.

ZIMBABWEANS in "exile" in Southend are continuing to campaign for political change in their troubled home country.

Thousands have started a new life in the area, especially Westcliff, since the African country has been gripped by unrest and economic chaos.

On Saturday, the community got together at St Helen's Parish Church, Milton Road, where many of them are members, for a fun day organised by the Movement for Democratic Change.

Jamesom Mashakada, 28, has been in Southend since 2001 and is the movement's youth chairman.

He said: "We are fighting for a new Zimbabwe. We are very concerned about what's happening in our country. We want to raise funds to support the struggle."

Paul Sakraukwed, 35, said: "I have been living here for seven years and it has been very good."

Former movement chairman Washington Ali, 36, said Zimbabweans had always enjoyed a warm reception in Southend.

He said: "I am always surprised people in Southend really know about what's happening in Zimbabwe."

Mr Ali said the two countries had a lot in common. He said: "Everyone grows up learning English. Education and the health system are very similar."

He added: "The situation is very tense at home. It is a timebomb which is going to detonate any time and I hope it's soon."

Zimbabweans travelled from all over the country to attend the event at the church.