Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
EIGHT Mashonaland West provincial affiliates of ZANU PF on Friday received US$220 000 from the Presidential Empowerment Fund to support various empowerment programmes.
The hand over of the money took place at Kutama Grounds in Zvimba.
Dr Paul Tungwarara, the Special Investment Advisor to the President, stressed that community empowerment was central to the ZANU PF-led Government’s agenda.
He said the fund was a tool for unity, meant to help build and strengthen ZANU PF and Zimbabwe at large.
“Our Presidium is united under the leadership of His Excellency President Mnangagwa.
“We, therefore, shun with might any attempts to draw into petty politics or gossip designed to sow discord in the ruling party,” he said.
“Community empowerment is our ultimate goal. This vision is here to stay and we will ensure that every affiliate reaps the rewards.
“Together, we are on the path to creating empowered communities that shine a light on Vision 2030.”
He commended Hairdressers4ED affiliate, whose other provincial structures had managed to repay funds for the benefit of others.
“President Mnangagwa once urged us to invest this money and generate more so that others benefit. He now requests that we present our financial statements. Do not think these are funds for splashing and spending,” he said.
The innovative funding programme, designed as a revolving facility, is expected to significantly boost empowerment projects in Mashonaland West.
Among the beneficiaries, two affiliates — VaPostori for ED and Children of War Veterans — each received US$50 000, while the remaining six affiliates got US$20 000 each.
The other six empowered affiliates include Pastors for ED, Vendors for ED, Boyz DzaMdara and Health Ambassadors for ED.
VaPostori for ED national chairperson Madzibaba Moses hailed the funding.
“With this fund, we are ready to enhance our self-empowerment efforts and play a vital role in national development,” he said.
Said Pastors for ED national chairperson Prophetess Idirashe Dongo: “This funding is our golden ticket; it provides us with the tools and confidence needed to actively participate in the national economy as we work towards the Vision 2030 agenda.”
Mr Andrew Mugabe, the provincial chairperson of Boyz DzaMdara, highlighted the immediate positive impact of the funding.
“We have projects ready to launch and this empowerment facility is exactly the boost we need.
“We are prepared to create even more opportunities for our youth,” he said.
Vendors for ED provincial chairperson Mrs Colleen Chinovainzwa called the empowerment fund “a game-changer”.
In a speech read by Mr Josphat Jaji, the provincial secretary in her office, Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensure that “no one is left behind”.
“This programme symbolises hope for our economic and social development,” she said.
Zanu PF Mashonaland West chairperson Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka warned beneficiaries against misusing the funds.
“As the ruling party, we are dedicated to working closely with our affiliates. Consultation and connection to the party will guide our efforts,” she said.
