Online Reporter
Samuel Kadungure
News Editor
ZANU PF Manicaland leadership has made major strides in its fundraising efforts for the 25th Annual National People’s Conference, slated to take place at Mutare Polytechnic from October 13 to 18.
To date, the ruling party has raised an impressive US$300 000 and 200 beasts, in addition to several goats, pigs, and tonnes of grain, courtesy of its dedicated cadres from the province.
The ruling party aims to raise a minimum of US$1 million towards the conference, and is yet to approach its major donors, both within the province and nationwide.
All donations are expected to be submitted by August 15, with payments being channelled into the party’s national account, overseen by Treasurer-General, Advocate Jacob Mudenda.
ZANU PF Manicaland provincial chairman, Cde Tawanda Mukodza addressed the Provincial Coordinating Committee (PCC) last Sunday, stressing the importance of collective efforts in preparing for the party’s upcoming national conference.
He said no donation is too big or insignificant, reiterating that a collaborative approach was crucial in delivering a seamless event.
Cde Mukodza said the conference will now be hosted at Mutare Polytechnic, utilising two venues – Mutare Sports Club for the business exhibition and the Pavilion Grounds for the main event.
Initially, two districts – Nyanga and Zimunya-Marange – had been recommended to host the conference – based on the fact that the other six administrative districts of the party had recently hosted President Mnangagwa at rallies, leaving Nyanga and Zimunya-Marange as the only exceptions.
“Substantial progress has already been made, with cadres from Manicaland donating US$300 000 and 200 beasts during the recent PCC and Central Committee meetings. This demonstrates that the foundation is in place for Manicaland to host the conference successfully.
“We now need to establish a committee to follow up on these donations, ensuring that all contributions are received by August 15. The funds will be deposited into the party’s national account, either in foreign currency or ZiG equivalent. We will also seek guidance from the party on a central location for cattle delivery to avoid issues that have happened in the past. Notably, each donated beast has been valued at US$500,” explained Cde Mukodza.
To ensure a seamless and successful event, about 10 committees have been established to oversee various aspects of the conference, including – documentation and legal, organisation, finance, security and accreditation, information, transport and social welfare, health, entertainment, environment, science and technology.
Cde Mukodza said these committees will collaborate closely with teams responsible for organising State functions to guarantee a well-coordinated event.
Additionally, a walkathon from Harare to Manicaland is planned as part of the conference activities.
In line with Covid-19 protocols, all delegates attending the conference will be required to undergo mandatory testing.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza highlighted the significance of the upcoming Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, scheduled for September 9-12, as a precursor to the ZANU PF National People’s Conference.
He said both the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo and the ZANU PF National People’s Conference present valuable business opportunities for the people of Manicaland.
ZANU PF national secretary for Legal Affairs, Cde Patrick Chinamasa praised the preliminary pledges made towards the conference, saying they demonstrate the empowerment of the people of Manicaland.
“This is a testament to the fact that the people of Manicaland are now empowered, and they should be grateful to ZANU PF and Government,” he said.
Cde Chinamasa also congratulated Cde Dorothy Mabika on her recent election as the substantive provincial chairlady of the Women’s League, and urged the party’s wings to adhere to the constitution when conducting elections to avoid potential problems.
“Cde Mabika, I congratulate and encourage you to unite the Women’s League in the province,” said Cde Chinamasa.
Cde Chinamasa also emphasised the importance of showcasing Manicaland’s renowned hospitality during the conference.
“We are looking forward to a very successful conference. We are united. Unity is very important. I will be part of those participating in the walkathon, together with Central Committee member, Cde Shadreck Chipanga. We will be meeting more often to ensure a seamless event,” he said.
ZANU PF national secretary for Local Government and Devolution, Cde Supa Mandiwanzira stressed the need for accountability and transparency in receiving and acknowledging conference donations.
