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policing programmes that support the country’s agrarian reform programme.
Speaking during the handover of 100 motorbikes to the ZRP in Harare yesterday, Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development Minister Joseph Made said the police played a pivotal role in agricultural activities, particularly livestock development hence the need to equip them.
Minister Made said the bikes were aimed at strengthening institutions whose operations are key to promoting Government initiatives.
“It is thus not far fetched for me to assert that where food security is threatened, national peace is also threatened. It is important to note that successful farming can only be realised in an environment where there is peace and stability.
“As a Ministry, we have a programme of livestock development, which is aimed at rebuilding the national herd. The ZRP, through its various policing initiatives, which include the Anti-stock Theft Unit, is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the national herd is protected,” he said.
ZRP operations, Minister Made said, were weighed down by resource limitations caused by inadequate fiscus funding. He, however, said despite being incapacitated, the police had remained resolute in discharging their duties and have posted notable achievements in combating crime.
“If an organisation can achieve so much with so little, how much more can they do in an environment of abundance? We have never doubted the pedigree and capability of the ZRP.”
Turning to cattle rustlers, Minister Made said they would now find their match in the “dedicated and industrious police officers.”
“Livestock has since time immemorial, been a symbol of wealth for the African folk. Cattle have also been a source of draught power and food. Sadly, some social reprobates have selfishly sought to enrich themselves through illegal disposal of what others have toiled for over long periods.”
ZRP Commissioner General Augustine Chihuri said the donation would go a long way in safeguarding and enhancing growth of the national herd.
He expressed gratitude to Government for its complementary roles in fighting crime.
“The donation manifests the magnanimity by Government in bestowing the ZRP with critical resources as an apparent indication of its deep seated and unwavering commitment to work towards the vision of a crime free society,” he said.
Chihuri said the motorbikes would be distributed to all the rural districts, especially where cattle rustling was rampant.
The ceremony was attended by Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development secretary Mr Ngoni Masoka, his Home Affairs counterpart Mr Melusi Matshiya and senior police officers.
Online Reporter