Story by Reuben Barwe, Chief Correspondent
THE President and First Secretary of ZANU PF, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa says women should be placed at the centre of empowerment programmes, rallying their participation in the mainstream economy.
He made the remarks this Monday at the launch of the ZANU PF Women’s League Empowerment Fund in Harare, where thousands of women gathered to witness what the President described as a transformative initiative.
“When women have economic power and sustainable sources of livelihoods, we are guaranteed that families are sustained, while communities are developed, step by step, brick by brick, and stone upon stone. Most women, by nature, are builders and agents of transformation. Under the guidance and leadership of the Women’s League, the women of our country will be enabled and motivated to work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.
Following the recent launches of empowerment schemes for the Youth and War Veterans’ Leagues, the initiative reaffirms the ruling party’s commitment to inclusive development, with a particular focus on women as agents of transformation.
“This groundbreaking initiative stands as a beacon of hope, that will accelerate the realisation of high-impact programmes and projects. The Fund is designed to be a powerful engine for economic growth, social inclusion and transformation to ensure development that leaves no one and no place behind,” the President noted.
The President emphasised the need for the Women’s League to adopt an inclusive approach in identifying and selecting beneficiaries, ensuring that the fund benefits women from all walks of life.
“This programme is for the benefit of all the women of our country and I urge the Women’s League to take an all-inclusive approach in the identification and selection of beneficiaries of the Empowerment Fund.”
He stressed that the initiative would go beyond providing financial support, incorporating skills development, intellectual growth, and social and emotional well-being, to enable women to meaningfully contribute to their communities and the national economy.
In his remarks, the President called for the dismantling of outdated beliefs that undermine women’s financial independence.
“The Fund is a wholistic empowerment tool that encompasses economic independence as well as social, emotional, and intellectual growth. Through deliberate and targeted funding mechanisms, such as the one we are launching today, socio-economic gaps and inequalities will be addressed.”
He commended Zimbabwean women for their resilience in the face of various economic and environmental challenges, including the ongoing impact of illegal sanctions and climate change.
The President acknowledged the significant role played by women in various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, SMEs, tourism and construction, praising their efforts in job creation and economic development.\
