HARARE Mayor Muchadeyi Masunda has urged residents to participate in fund raising for the needy. He said this in a speech read on his behalf by Acting Mayor Councillor Stewart Mutizwa during a Christmas lights switching-on ceremony at Africa Unity Square in the capital yesterday evening.

"This ceremony symbolises the beginning of the festive season. It is a reminder to us to take into consideration the plight of the less fortunate members of society," he said.

He said these included the elderly, orphaned and those in difficult circumstances.

"It is in light of this that a day like this was set aside so that they get to witness the beauty of Christmas."

Mayor Masunda urged the public to be extra careful during this festive season and avoid accidents.