Story by John Nhandara
HUNDREDS of people in Manicaland Province braved the rain to attend the official launch of the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund, which saw the province’s 26 constituencies receive their share of over US$500 000 dedicated to local community projects.
The event, held at Kuhera Stadium in Murambinda, also saw ZANU PF district chairpersons in the province receive vehicles and cash.
The Young Women for ED affiliate was further empowered through the injection of a US$250 000 revolving fund.
“These funds will go a long way in assisting us to venture into projects of our choice,” said one beneficiary.
“By empowering communities, you are empowering us at the grassroots level,” noted another.
Presidential Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara highlighted that the aim of the fund is to stimulate grassroots economic activity and enhance local livelihoods.
“This fund aims to empower communities. The President has also said no one should be left behind. We are empowering from constituency to ward level and down to the village level. Each constituency is receiving US$25 000. It is a revolving fund in every constituency. If used effectively, this fund can promote self-reliance in rural communities,” he said.
The fund, which provides access to capital and fosters self-reliance, complements other ongoing development projects in Manicaland Province.
“We would like to thank the President for this gesture. Manicaland Province will not be the same again,” said Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza.
Young Women for ED founder and Chairperson, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, noted that the funds will go a long way in capacitating members.
The event also saw communities receive farming inputs as part of ongoing empowerment schemes.
