Little Girl’s Loud Shout Turns Into a US$100 Payday—Presidential Surprise at ZITF

BULAWAYO – A seven-year-old girl’s excited call at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) led to a moment of unexpected generosity from President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who rewarded her with US$100.

As the President toured exhibition stands alongside Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, he was met with an enthusiastic shout of “President Mnangagwa!” from the crowd.

The voice belonged to young Tinashe Tsekiso Mutemi, who was standing near a stand with her sister, Kemuso, among other excited fairgoers.

Amused by the outburst, Mnangagwa paused in his tracks and playfully asked, “Who said that?” His gaze landed on Tinashe, who waved eagerly, catching his attention. Smiling, the President walked over, greeted her warmly, and reached into his pocket, pulling out a crisp US$100 note.

The crowd erupted in cheers, with fairgoers capturing the heartwarming moment on their phones.

According to iHarare, Tinashe expressed her joy at the unexpected encounter, stating, “I was so happy to see the President in real life for the first time. I shouted his name hoping he would notice me and he did! When he gave me the money, I was surprised and happy.

This will help my family. I will never forget this day.”

Her 13-year-old sister, Kemuso, admitted she initially tried to stop Tinashe from shouting, fearing the presence of security personnel.

“I thought it wasn’t safe, but she kept shouting. We never expected the President to stop and acknowledge her, let alone give her money. It was such a kind gesture.”

Pictures of Tinashe proudly displaying her unexpected gift quickly spread across social media, with fairgoers praising the President’s personal engagement.

One witness remarked, “It’s rare for a President to stop and personally acknowledge a child in the crowd. It was touching to see.”