Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure and Takudzwa Mangrozah, Zimpapers Reporters
TO further boost agricultural productivity and production, President Mnangagwa yesterday handed over the first batch of 100 tractors to war veterans in an empowerment initiative that will have ripple effects in communities around the country.
The event marks a major step in a broader empowerment drive designed to support the country’s liberation war heroes ahead of the upcoming farming season.
The handover ceremony was conducted by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka, who represented the President, at the ruling party’s headquarters in Harare.
Minister Masuka said the initiative recognises the immense sacrifices made by the nation’s war veterans in liberating the country.
“We will forever honour all of you, the brave men and women, who took up arms to fight and dismantle the white colonial regime,” he said. “I was sent by President Mnangagwa to hand over this first batch. The President has so far secured 100 tractors, which are ready for collection after all due processes have been completed.”
He confirmed that the tractors are part of a larger ongoing programme, with more equipment expected for the veterans. The machines are at present stored at the Institute of Agricultural Engineering.
Under the scheme, President Mnangagwa has pledged to pay 50 percent of the total cost for each tractor. The remaining balance will be paid by the beneficiaries through financing arrangements with the AFC Bank. The tractors will be distributed through the same bank.
Zanu-PF Secretary for War Veterans, Cde Douglas Mahiya, commended President Mnangagwa’s generosity, describing him as a leader who listens to the people.
“It is in his wisdom that these initiatives finally materialise. President Mnangagwa created the War Veterans League to better understand our socio-economic needs. This is the result of our request for tractors some time back,” said Cde Mahiya.
He praised the President for his commitment and accountability.
Cde Mahiya clarified that the programme is for all war veterans who own farms, aiming to enhance their land utilisation, urging those requiring tractors to apply through their respective provincial structures.
The handover was met with elation from the beneficiaries.
Cde Maltina Mashava from Harare Province expressed her joy, stating, “I have been waiting for such an empowerment initiative. I am happy that President Mnangagwa listened to our concerns and delivered as promised.
We promise to increase agricultural production to fulfill his wishes.”
Echoing her sentiments, Cde Thando Sibanda from Bulawayo Province said the President had made it possible for war veterans to access crucial farming equipment.
This tractor mechanisation programme is a component of a larger empowerment package for war veterans recently launched by the President, which also includes a US$2 million revolving fund to be shared equally among the country’s ten provinces.
President Mnangagwa is scheduled to address the War Veterans League National Executive members later today.
