Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
EIGHT Mashonaland West provincial affiliates of Zanu PF were last Friday given US$220 000 from the Presidential Empowerment Fund to support various empowerment projects.
The handover of the cash was made at a packed event held at Kutama grounds in Zvimba where Dr Paul Tungwarara, the Special 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 and not a seed for division, meant to help build and strengthen Zanu PF and Zimbabwe at large.
“Our praesidium is united under the leadership of His Excellency President Mnangagwa,” he said.
“We therefore shun any attempts to draw into petty politics or gossip designed to sow discord in the ruling party.
“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 gave kudos to the Hairdressers4ED affiliate whose other provincial structures had managed to return the funds for the benefit of others.
“President Mnangagwa once urged us to invest this money and generate more so that others benefit,” he said.
“He now requests that we present our financial statements. Don’t think these are funds for splashing and spending.”.
The innovative funding programme, designed as a revolving facility, is expected to significantly boost empowerment projects within the communities of 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 celebrated their achievements as well, each receiving US$20 000 to advance their initiatives.
The other six empowered affiliates include Pastors for ED, Vendors for ED, Boyz DzaMdara, and Health Ambassadors for ED, all eager to make an impact with their projects.
Madzibaba Moses, the national chairman of VaPostori for ED, praised the funding, stating the support breathes new life into a community that has been waiting for its moment.
“With this fund, we are ready to enhance our self-empowerment efforts and play a vital role in national development,” he said.
Prophetess Idirashe Dongo, the esteemed national chairperson of Pastors for ED, expressed her excitement about how the funding would empower her members.
“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 chairman 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.
Mrs Colleen Chinovainzwa, the provincial chairperson of Vendors for ED, called the empowerment fund a game-changer.
Farmers4ED national chairman, Cde Tapuwa Chitate, whose affiliate is next in line to benefit, encouraged those who benefited to invest the funds productively so that they also receive their share.
“This funding will ensure that our members can thrive and trade according to national standards, improving their livelihoods and strengthening our economy.”
In a speech delivered by Mr Josphat Jaji, the provincial secretary in her office, Marian Chombo, the Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment.
“We are on a mission to ensure that no one is left behind. This program symbolises hope for our economic and social development,” she stated.
Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, the Zanu PF Mashonaland chairman, cautioned beneficiaries against misusing the funds.
“As the ruling party, we’re dedicated to working closely with our affiliates. Consultation and connection to the party will guide our efforts,” she remarked.
