Our story
Tinochema Pamwe
We grieve together
Chema was born from a simple truth: no Zimbabwean family should face the weight of loss alone. We built a platform that carries the ancient tradition of chema into the digital age — so that community can show up, wherever in the world they are.
Our mission
Dignity in grief, strength in community
We exist to make it easy for Zimbabwean families — at home and in the diaspora — to pool resources, pledge in-kind support, and stand together when it matters most. Every Chema page is a circle of care.
Ubuntu
We are because of each other. Chema is built on the belief that community is the foundation of dignity.
Trust & Transparency
Every contribution is tracked, every disbursement is co-signed. Families and contributors can see exactly where funds go.
Inclusion
Whether you are in Harare, London, or Johannesburg — Chema meets you where you are, in the currency you use.
Dignity
Grief is sacred. We design every interaction to honour the family and the person they have lost.
How it started
A tradition, reimagined
For generations, Zimbabwean communities have practised chema — neighbours, relatives, and friends gathering to bring food, firewood, and funds to a bereaved family. It is not charity. It is belonging.
But as families spread across continents, the logistics of chema became harder. Money sent through informal channels got lost. Duplicate in-kind contributions piled up. Diaspora relatives felt helpless, unable to contribute meaningfully from afar.
Chema was built to solve this — a platform that preserves the spirit of the tradition while adding the transparency, coordination, and reach that modern families need.
The people behind Chema
Built by Zimbabweans, for Zimbabwean families
Our team spans Harare, Johannesburg, London, and beyond. We have all experienced loss, and we have all felt the warmth of community showing up. That is why we build this.
Ready to start a Chema Campaign
When loss comes, let your community answer. Start a page in minutes and let people rally around your family.