Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure, Zimpapers Politics Hub
GOVERNMENT has provided hand-wheeled tractors to war veterans as part of its ongoing efforts to empower them. The first batch of 12 tractors was handed over to war veterans in Harare yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the mechanisation of agriculture for those with smaller landholdings.
The beneficiaries are A1 farmers working on relatively modest plots of land, where the tractors are expected to have the most immediate impact. These tractors aim to ease the “back-breaking burden of manual labour, boost productivity and strengthen food security, thereby transforming households and communities.”
Speaking at the handover ceremony — which also included the transfer of assets from Power Zimbabwe to the Veterans Investment Holdings Company — the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Cde Monica Mavhunga, described the tractors as a means of recognising and empowering “the true heroes and heroines of Zimbabwe.”
“The tractors represent the practical tools you need to make your land productive. Let us leave this gathering renewed in our commitment to building a prosperous Zimbabwe where every veteran of the liberation struggle enjoys the dignity, security and opportunities they fought for,” said Minister Mavhunga.
The 12 hand-wheeled tractors were handed over to deserving comrades from Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Midlands, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East and Masvingo provinces.
The consignment was evenly distributed between six female and six male veterans, in line with the Government’s commitment to gender equity and the recognition that the liberation struggle was fought by both men and women.
“Let me emphasise, our comrades in the remaining provinces have not been forgotten. The ministry has made deliberate plans to ensure that you will certainly be included in the next consignment as resources are mobilised.
“The principle of fairness, inclusivity and equitable development underpins every action we take. These principles guide the conduct of business of the Second Republic under the astute leadership of President Mnangagwa,” she said.
Minister Mavhunga said that support for A1 farmers is a clear demonstration of the Government’s recognition of their immense contribution to both household and national food security.
She also commended President Mnangagwa for introducing national policies under the philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind”, ensuring that veterans are honoured not only in word but in deeds.
The tractors were sourced by Mr Peace Ndlovu to support the war veterans.
Minister Mavhunga hailed this initiative as a “remarkable gesture of patriotism and gratitude,” and a clear indication that the younger generation understands and respects the sacrifices made by those who fought for Zimbabwe’s freedom.
“I challenge all dependents of war veterans across our beloved nation, Zimbabwe, to emulate this powerful example. Patriotism is not just about celebrating independence; it is about actively contributing to the welfare and empowerment of those who made independence possible.
“This patriotic act is a clarion call to all our youths to embark on productive activities,” said Minister Mavhunga.
Bongani Ndlovu