The payment to the Feeding Fund was less than budgeted but catered for the needs. However the Clinic substantially under-claimed the full grant allocated although their lack of drugs throughout the year was reported. This highlights our reliance on the local staff playing their part and also the dilemma in allocating funds. Many thanks to Carol Williams, our Zimbabwe Administrator, for wonderful work in ensuring that funds are only paid where their correct use is guaranteed. Thus in under- and over-paying on our budget the funds still fulfil the real needs of the Mission.
The unexpected payment of the import duty on the Land Rover was something we felt bound to pay although we had been led to expect no duty was levied on gifts to church organizations. We also paid the promised £2,000 grant towards the fire damage in the workers’ village.
Our payments are now made from our bank directly into a dedicated account in Zimbabwe from which Carol distributes the funds when she is satisfied with the requests. Some charges are made for these transfers. The bank has just changed to an electronic transfer system which has meant revising our mandate as signatories have to be present in person.
Current Situation
Our assets at the year end were £31,208 compared with £35,468 at the start, thus £4,260 were used from reserves.
With ongoing commitments of about £16,000 per year this leaves £15,208 in reserve plus our income for the current year. Some of this is restricted for special purposes such as the Borehole Appeal fund of £3,270 which is still waiting to be used. This means about £12,000 remains unallocated which we can use for further need at the Mission if requested.
Conclusion
At the end of another successful year I feel that we shall have some real challenges to face in the future. While we look forward with optimism to the changes at St James they may well lead to increased demands on our resources. So thanks again for all the loyal support we have received, to David and Carol for their work in the administration and please continue the good work!
Elizabeth Wakefield - February 2011
