Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
GOVERNMENT is committed to supporting fish farming initiatives that support self-sustenance and productivity, especially for pensioners, in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, a senior official has said.
Officially launching the Zimbabwe Pensioners Welfare Trust Fisheries Programme at Mr Joe Ruwende’s homestead, in Ruwende Village in Nyanga North this afternoon, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Honourable David Marapira said by promoting sustainable aquaculture and food security initiatives, Government is not only supporting the health and welfare of its elderly population, but also contributing to the overall development and resilience of the nation.
The initiative, he said, will see the stocking of ponds with fish, providing elderly citizens with not only a source of nutrition but also a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
He who was represented by the Senior Specialist Fisheries in the ministry, Mrs Clementine Zvavahera.
“As the President always says, we are not going to leave anyone behind in the Fisheries sector.
We already have Village Business Units, Fish for Schools Programme, Fish for She, Fish for Chiefs and we are here in Nyanga today to launch the Fish for Pensioners programme, which is outstanding and vital to our elders. Fish is a highly nutritious food source, rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. For our pensioners, many of whom may struggle to access and afford nutritious food options, incorporating fish into their diets can have immense health benefits,” said Honourable Marapira.
He added: “Furthermore, the Fish for Pensioners programme is not just about providing a meal – it is about empowering our elderly citizens to take an active role in their own health and well-being.
By tending to the fish ponds, our pensioners will have the opportunity to engage in physical activity, connect with nature, and experience a sense of accomplishment as they contribute to the production of their own food. Beyond the individual benefits to our pensioners, this program also holds broader implications for our country. By promoting sustainable aquaculture and food security initiatives, we are not only supporting the health and welfare of our elderly population but also contributing to the overall development and resilience of our nation.”
