Online Reporter
Dr Paul Tungwarara
A transformative shift in the upliftment of war veterans is in motion following the recent launch of the US$1,5 million Presidential War Veterans Fund.
To date, multitudes of war veterans have benefitted from the scheme, where they draw funds for their self-sustenance.
It is estimated that there are over 30 000 surviving liberation fighters.
Under the US$1,5 million facility, each of the country’s 10 provinces is receiving at least US$150 000 for the war vets to embark on projects.
While the fund’s allocation may appear modest in the face of long-standing grievances and the large number of ex-combatants, it represents a concrete step towards addressing the welfare needs of liberation war fighters. For years, war veterans have voiced deep concerns about their welfare, arguing that the recognition and support they receive fall far short of their immense sacrifices in liberating the country.
Many have struggled with economic hardships, limited access to healthcare and inadequate social support, despite their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history.
Their calls for meaningful assistance have grown louder, pushing for policies and initiatives that genuinely honour their service and secure their well-being.
Being the listening leader that he is, President Mnangagwa decided to step in.
The US$1,5 million fund represents a tangible commitment to supporting the cause of the liberation fighters.
Prompt payments
A significant feature of the initiative is that the funds are being dispersed expeditiously. This is why to date the money has been distributed in cash.
The focus is for the war veterans to immediately benefit. There is no time to waste.There is urgency in addressing the war veterans’ long-standing grievances.
There is no time to wait.
The war veterans have already endured years of neglect, and it is imperative that they finally receive what is rightfully theirs. No country in the world abandons those who fought for its liberation, and Zimbabwe is not an exception. That is why the President has given a clear and unwavering directive — this initiative must be implemented without delay.
This demonstrates that this scheme is not just another promise but a unique action-driven programme designed to deliver tangible results.
The President is a man of his word; when he commits to something, he ensures it is carried out swiftly and effectively.
He is not one for empty rhetoric — he is a leader of action, dedicated to fulfilling his promises to those who sacrificed for our nation.
Evolving policy
The US$1,5 million Presidential War Veterans Fund uses an innovative, revolving loan model.
The funds are disbursed as interest-free loans, which beneficiaries are obligated to repay.
This repayment mechanism ensures the long-term viability of the fund, as the returned capital can then be allocated to other eligible war veterans, creating a continuous cycle of support.
The full impact of the fund will, therefore, depend on the transparent and equitable distribution of these resources.
While the disbursement of the US$1,5 million allocations is underway, it remains crucial to understand that this initiative constitutes but a singular component within a more comprehensive and strategically conceived framework.
This is why, on Thursday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere announced that President Mnangagwa has approved the allocation of urban land for war veterans.
The land will be distributed in various urban areas, allowing veterans to establish homes and engage in entrepreneurial ventures across the country’s 10 provinces.
Dr Muswere said the land allocated to the war veterans can also be used as collateral.
This initiative will encompass all 10 provinces, beginning with land in Jumbo, Mazowe district.
This proves that the President’s support to war veterans is a component of a larger, evolving policy framework aimed at recognising and supporting those who contributed to the nation’s liberation.
It is in the same vein that another programme involves the drilling of boreholes for war veterans.
The intention is to drill a borehole for every war veteran.
This is an ambitious target but what is important to note is that implementation has started.
The borehole programme started in Mashonaland Central province.
This is befitting because the Second Chimurenga started in Centenary.
The area occupies a unique place in Zimbabwe’s history.
It was at Altena Farm in Centenary that ZANLA combatants launched their first attack in 1972, marking the beginning of the guerrilla war.Furthermore, the ZANU PF War Veterans League was also launched in Centenary a couple of years ago.
In addition to the provision of boreholes, the support for war veterans also incorporates a significant component dedicated to the welfare of war veterans’ widows.
This is significant because we have to recognise the sacrifices these widows made whilst their husbands were in the trenches and the hardships they may face now.
The success of the Presidential War Veterans Fund launch is evident in the jubilant atmosphere at gatherings across the provinces. The joy expressed by war veterans has been unmistakable, a clear indication that the programme has resonated deeply with the ex-combatant community.
While the sheer number of liberation fighters — over 30 000 — presents a considerable challenge, this initiative has undeniably struck the right chord, bringing a sense of hope and happiness to many who served their country.
Indeed, the good times are rolling for war veterans.It cannot be denied that the President is succeeding in making war veterans happy, striking a positive and unifying chord.
Dr Paul Tungwarara is the President’s Adviser on investments.
