admin
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
THOUSANDS of people with disabilities in Mashonaland West are set to lead self-sufficient and fulfilling lives following Government’s recent launch of the Presidential Piggeries and Roadrunner programmes meant to positively transform the socio-economic reality of all communities.
The national programme was officially launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Bindura in July this year at the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo with the provincial one being launched in Sanyati last Thursday, as the Government continues to walk the talk of not leaving anyone and no place behind.
The first beneficiaries of the provincial programme received road runner chickens and a pig each with which to start the journey towards self-empowerment.
Mashonaland West provincial chairperson for People with Disabilities, Mr Moses Marufu said their desire to be economically empowered through the Presidential programmes has been heard.
“Today we have witnessed the actualisation and fulfilment of the programme launched by His Excellency. Once we are capacitated, we are able to work for ourselves,” he said.
One beneficiary, Mr James Hwozheri said the Second Republic was walking the talk on inclusion with the beneficiaries expected to take good care of their families by using revenue generated from the projects.
Minister in the Office of the Special Advisor to the President on National Disability Issues, Senator Rose Mpofu who graced the event, said President Mnangagwa has always been a listening leader who promotes the lives of the vulnerable.
“My elevation to his office testifies his commitment towards the welfare of people with disabilities. The disability quota system is being implemented to that effect. Under this Programme those who have built fowl runs will receive at least one thousand road runner chickens and a pig,” she said.
In her remarks, Mashonaland West Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo said a lot of projects had been introduced by the Government to support people with disabilities in the province.
“We want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for ensuring that no one and no place is left behind. As a province, we view this development as critical in promoting inclusion of vulnerable groups in national programmes,” said Minister Chombo.
The piggery and roadrunner programmes will compliment other running livestock schemes covering cattle, goats, sheep, poultry and fisheries that were launched in the recent past.
With the right management, pigs can produce large litters to provide a quick sustainable pathway to better livelihoods for the communities. A sow can have two farrowings and produce more than 20 piglets every year that can be sent to the market at six months. This allows farmers to generate both revenue and cash flows quickly while building their herds.
Recent cattle deaths countrywide have created protein shortages that can be filled up through boosting supplies of other meat products. Beneficiaries under the piggery programme will therefore have abundant markets.
Online Reporter