Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
PENSIONERS in Nyanga have received a major boost after the launch of a fisheries project that saw 1 500 tilapia fingerlings being stocked in an initiative aimed at promoting self-sustenance, productivity and improved wellness among the elderly.
The Zimbabwe Pensioners Welfare Trust (ZPWT) Fisheries Programme was officially launched on Wednesday at Mr Joe Ruwende’s homestead in Ruwende Village, Nyanga North.
The project seeks to empower pensioners, who often face numerous challenges after retirement, including reduced income, loss of employment benefits and increased health concerns.
Many retirees struggle with limited disposable income due to modest pension pay-outs, making it difficult to afford adequate nutrition, agricultural inputs, transport, shelter and medical care.
The fixed nature of pensions, coupled with inflation and climate change effects, further worsen their situation.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza said the programme aligns with Government’s development agenda.
He was represented by the Nyanga District Development Coordinator, Mr Edmore Chikomo.
“Coming to this peripheral area shows that we are moving in the right direction and fulfilling Government’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind as we work towards achieving an upper-middle-income society by 2030. Fisheries are a key component of Manicaland’s local economy, providing both income and nutrition. As the provincial leadership, we are committed to support initiatives that promote sustainable fishing practices, improve infrastructure and create opportunities for our people,” said Minister Mugadza.
Zimbabwe Pensioners Welfare Trust, chief executive officer, Mr Tavengwa Rwazemba said the programme was conceived after pensioners identified common challenges affecting them, including loneliness, idleness and loss of social standing after retirement.\
“Many pensioners struggle with social isolation and loss of purpose after leaving employment. We decided to come together and create projects that keep us active and engaged. Fish farming is, not only therapeutic, but also commercially viable.
‘‘The tilapia fish will generate income within a short period. After launching in Nyanga and Mutasa, where there is abundant water, we aim to expand the programme and eventually export fish,” he said, further encouraging women and youths to participate in the initiative, emphasising that the ultimate goal is production and self-sustenance.
The host, Mr Joe Ruwende, expressed gratitude for the programme.
“We started with a 20×10-metre fish pond out of passion and interest. For one to enjoy retirement, you need to remain fit and healthy, and fish is a healthy food source. We are grateful to the Zimbabwe Pensioners Welfare Trust for their support,” he said.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Honourable David Marapira, whose speech was delivered by Senior Specialist (Fisheries), Mrs Clementine Zvavahera, said the initiative demonstrates Government’s commitment to inclusive development.“By promoting sustainable aquaculture and food security initiatives, we are supporting the health and welfare of our elderly population while contributing to the overall development and resilience of our nation. As the President has said, we are not going to leave anyone behind in the fisheries sector,” he said.
Deputy Minister Marapira said Government has already rolled out programmes such as Village Business Units, Fish for Schools, Fish for She and Fish for Chiefs, and that the Fish for Pensioners programme was a natural extension of these empowerment initiatives.
“Fish is highly nutritious, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals. For pensioners who may struggle to afford balanced diets, incorporating fish into their meals offers immense health benefits. Beyond providing food, this programme empowers them to take an active role in their wellbeing through managing fish ponds, engaging in physical activity and contributing to their own food production,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Pensioners Welfare Trust, an affiliate of ZANU PF, was established by experienced social welfare professionals to develop innovative programmes that address the immediate and long-term needs of pensioners and other marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities and former freedom fighters.
The Nyanga launch marks the beginning of a broader rollout that will extend to other districts, with the aim of strengthening food security, improving livelihoods and restoring dignity among Zimbabwe’s elderly citizens.
