Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
For decades, they carried the weight of a nation’s hope on their backs, braving gunfire, hardships and exile to deliver the promise of independence.
Now, Zimbabwe’s war veterans are finally receiving more than just salutes.
They are getting keys to dignity, security and a better future.
In a landmark move brimming with both gratitude and substance, the Government has launched the Presidential Stands for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle, a bold initiative that illustrates the nation’s appreciation.
The ceremonial launch was a moment of solemn pride and optimistic celebration.
It was attended by top-tier officials including Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, Veterans Affairs Minister Monica Mavhunga, and Special Presidential Investment Adviser Dr Paul Tungwarara, whose Prevail Group International is tasked with rolling out the project.
“Our Constitution provides for the accord of honour, respect and economic empowerment for our veterans,” he said.
“As such, the Second Republic has, from its inception, put this into practice by appointing the Ministry of War Veterans. So, the Second Republic is concerned about the welfare of the veterans.”
The Presidential Stands are more than housing plots as they are part of a broader national push to uplift those who have long stood in the margins, carrying the scars of liberation with little material reward. And now, the tide is turning.
A visibly moved Minister Mavhunga revealed that war veterans have been allocated a 20 percent quota in national resources spanning mining, housing and farming, and emphasised that transparency and fairness would be the pillars of this programme.
“Firstly, let me thank our President for taking care of the welfare of the veterans, our Minister of Local Government, and Prevail Group of Companies for this project that is going to benefit our comrades.
“We are going to do this transparently, and we promise everyone in this country that we are not going to be found on the side of those who are corrupt,” she said.
Dr Tungwarara, whose firm will develop the stands into fully serviced, liveable communities, spoke with determination.
“We are poised to deliver with speed and efficiency.
“Our expertise in large-scale projects across Southern Africa and the United Arab Emirates ensures quality infrastructure roads, water, and electricity will be prioritised,” he said.
The programme promises far more than land. Roads, clean water, electricity and essential services will be integrated into the developments, with local authorities partnering to ensure fast-tracked, quality delivery.
And this is just the beginning.
Alongside the stands, several other schemes are being rolled out for veterans from economic empowerment funds to access to agricultural opportunities all designed to transform the sacrifices of the past into prosperity for the future.
The Government is rolling out more support programmes to ensure that war veterans and their families enjoy a dignified and comfortable life.
At least US$1,5 million has so far been allocated for the Presidential War Veterans Fund, with each province receiving US$150 000 as part of ongoing efforts to economically empower the country’s liberators.
The fund, officially launched in Harare, will provide interest-free loans to war veterans, enabling them to start businesses and achieve self-sufficiency.
After decades of giving, Zimbabwe’s war veterans are now poised to receive not as an afterthought, but as honoured pillars of the nation’s foundation.
Apart from the stands, Government is intensifying efforts to improve the welfare of its war veterans, ensuring they benefit from the freedom they helped secure.
In a heart-warming gesture of recognition and support, Zimbabwean liberation war veteran Cde Murambiwa Mujuru was this year handed the keys to a brand-new three-bedroom home in Murehwa.
The house, provided under the Presidential War Veterans Fund, is a direct initiative of President Mnangagwa aimed at improving the welfare of former freedom fighters.
The provision of housing and other support services for war veterans is part of the Second Republic’s broader commitment to honouring those who fought for Zimbabwe’s sovereignty.
As the country gears up for the historic Independence Day commemorations, Government programmes like these highlight the ongoing legacy of the liberation struggle and the need to uplift those who sacrificed for the nation.
War veterans remain a crucial pillar of the nation and their inclusion in economic empowerment programmes, housing schemes and other social services is seen as a key priority.
Expressing his gratitude, he described the new home as a, “tremendous blessing.”
“This house gives me a sense of security and dignity. I never expected such a generous gift, and I am truly thankful to President Mnangagwa, Dr Tungwarara, and the entire leadership of the war veterans,” he said.
His selection as a beneficiary was based on his dire need for improved living conditions, according to Zanu PF War Veterans League Mashonaland East Chair, Cde Daniel Matengo.
“Cde Mujuru was meticulously chosen due to concerns regarding his welfare. This initiative is part of a broader programme to assist war veterans who are in need,” he said.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Tungwarara said the house was constructed in record time three weeks.
“I called Cde Daniel Garwe (Zanu PF Mashonaland East provincial chair) to secure the stand, and he acted swiftly.
“Soon after that, I deployed my team, and in just three weeks, the house was completed,” he said.
Dr Tungwarara emphasised that this initiative was more than just providing shelter it was about restoring dignity and security to those who had selflessly fought for the nation’s freedom.
ZANU PF Secretary for War Veterans, War Collaborators, Ex-Detainees, and Restrictees, Cde Douglas Mahiya, highlighted the importance of such programmes, particularly as the country approaches Independence Day.
“We recognise the immense sacrifices made by our war veterans, and we are dedicated to enhancing their quality of life.
“President Mnangagwa has, therefore, sent his adviser, Dr Tungwarara, to officially hand over this house on his behalf,” he said.
The Zanu PF leadership has consistently reiterated its commitment to improving the welfare of war veterans, and this latest development is a clear demonstration of that pledge.
The Presidential War Veterans Fund is part of a wider Government-driven initiative to support those who fought for Zimbabwe’s liberation.
It seeks to provide housing, financial aid and social support to former combatants, ensuring that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
