War veteran empowerment drive launched in Masvingo

SAMUEL NJINGA

Government has unveiled a sweeping empowerment drive for war veterans in Masvingo, reinforcing its commitment to those who fought for the nation’s liberation.

At a grand ceremony held at Gwengavi Primary School in Chief Charumbira’s jurisdiction, the government introduced three major initiatives: the Presidential War Veterans Fund, the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme, and the Presidential War Veterans Scheme.

Attended by more than 7,000 people, the event was a powerful display of political strength, drawing key government figures and ZANU PF supporters. Among the dignitaries were Minister of State Security Lovemore Matuke, War Veterans Secretary Douglas Mahiya, and Presidential Advisor Dr. Temptor Paul Tungwarara, who delivered a stirring speech on the schemes’ transformative impact. Also present was Masvingo West MP and Minister of State Ezra Chadzamira, whose recent electoral victory was celebrated as a testament to party loyalty in the region.

At the heart of the initiative is the Presidential War Veterans Fund, a financial lifeline providing interest-free loans totaling US$150,000 to 500 veterans. Designed to foster self-sufficiency, the scheme empowers veterans to launch sustainable businesses. Dr. Tungwarara stressed that the fund was not a mere handout but an economic investment, urging beneficiaries to repay responsibly to expand the fund to US$1 million for future generations.

The Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme seeks to address chronic water shortages in rural areas by installing solar-powered boreholes. This initiative aims to revitalize agriculture and ensure water security, particularly in drought-prone communities. Dr. Tungwarara described it as a crucial step in restoring Zimbabwe’s historical resilience, ensuring that rural families can sustain themselves through reliable water access.

Meanwhile, the Presidential War Veterans Scheme is set to improve the living conditions of war veterans. Many former fighters still reside in inadequate housing, a reality the government has pledged to change. The scheme is integrated with Village Business Units, allowing veterans to access essential resources that will help them build stable livelihoods. Dr. Tungwarara condemned the continued hardship of war veterans, insisting that their sacrifices must be met with dignified living standards.

ZANU PF Masvingo Chair Robson Mavhenyengwa reinforced the need for party unity, warning against internal rebellion. Citing the expulsion of Blessed Geza as an example, he made it clear that undermining party authority would not be tolerated. His remarks reinforced the message that discipline and loyalty are non-negotiable as the ruling party drives toward its 2030 vision.

Masvingo West MP Ezra Chadzamira, whose re-election was a focal point of the event, expressed gratitude to his supporters, emphasizing that their loyalty would be rewarded. The thanksgiving mood was further highlighted by the donation of 250 goats to Young Women for ED, a gesture of solidarity and grassroots development.

War veterans also shared their appreciation. Phainos Hungwe, one of the beneficiaries, described the schemes as life-changing, noting that they provided a renewed sense of hope for those who had long felt abandoned. The ceremony ended with the distribution of mealie-meal and other essentials, ensuring that attendees left with tangible support for their families.

While framed as a veteran welfare initiative, the Masvingo event was as much a political statement as it was an economic empowerment drive. By securing war veterans’ loyalty through these programs, ZANU PF is strategically reinforcing its grassroots base. These initiatives not only promise to improve the lives of veterans but also serve as a tool for political consolidation, ensuring the ruling party’s dominance in the lead-up to future elections.