Story by Memory Chamisa
THE Government is walking the talk in empowering war veterans who have benefited from the Second Republic’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
It was a day of song and dance in Muzarabani this Wednesday as war veterans relieved their days of struggle in Mashonaland Central Province as they became the latest to benefit from the Presidential War Veterans Fund which saw the liberation stalwarts receiving US$150 000.
“The President has shown his love towards us. Since his election into power, we have a ministry that focuses on us and now this launch of the Presidential War Veterans Fund is a testament to his commitment as he himself is a veteran of the struggle,” said a beneficiary of the fund.
“President Mnangagwa is a man true to his word. As veterans of the struggle, we have more than been given respect by this man. We need to appreciate everything he has done for us from the companies that were opened, land for farming and now this fund at zero percent interest,” added another.
The Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Senator Monica Mavhunga underscored the government’s dedication to honouring the service and sacrifice of the liberation devotees.
“This ministry now stands as a testament to His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s dedication to those who sacrificed for our country’s independence. The Presidential War Veterans Fund is meant for outstanding projects and initiatives that not only acknowledge the country’s veterans of the struggle service history, but also the crucial role they have played in educating future generations and enhancing the wellbeing of the veteran community in Zimbabwe,” she said.
The ZANU PF leadership in Mashonaland Central Province commended President Mnangagwa for taking an interest in the welfare of former freedom fighters.
“His Excellency this year has shown he means business and war veterans who are at the core of his prominence have witnessed his dedication and commitment towards their welfare and for that we applaud him,” said Cde Kazembe Kazembe.
“The War Veterans League has become the biggest winner this year and everyone is set to be empowered financially. From agriculture to mines, we have been given a chance that we need to make good use of and not put him to shame, hence we say 2030 he must continue,” added the war veterans chairman, Cde Douglas Mahiya.
A total of US$1.5 million has been allocated for the Presidential War Veterans Fund, as part of on-going efforts to economically empower the country’s liberators.
Mashonaland Central becomes the third province to benefit from the fund after Masvingo and Mashonaland East provinces.
Other provinces will also benefit from the fund which is already in place.
