Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
MASVINGO – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been applauded for driving wealth creation among Zimbabweans through the introduction of a new land tenure system, which has been described as a game-changer in youth empowerment and agricultural development.
This was revealed by the Land Tenure Implementation Committee during an engagement in Masvingo, where youths were urged to take full advantage of the empowerment programme. Chairperson of the Committee, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, said the new system would trigger rapid economic transformation across the country.
Hundreds of youths including tertiary students from seven institutions in Masvingo had an opportunity to witness the unpacking of the new land tenure system aimed at providing secure and bankable tenure rights.
Chairperson of the Land Tenure Committee, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei said through the new system Zimbabwe’s economy will witness rapid transformation.
“President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision through the land tenure is to give us wealth as Zimbabweans, to empower us and ensure we have got power to protect ourselves and our resources. After coming up with the new tenure system, our President had to ensure there are financial strategies that enable farmers to be productive on their land hence establishment of infrastructural facility with a seed capital of 50 million to support infrastructure development for A2 farmers and infrastructure loans for A1 farmers.”
In the advent of new technologies, youths were encouraged to consider smart agriculture which is ideal towards boosting productivity through full land utilisation.
“Our government has provided us with an opportunity to be empowered. Let us leverage on technology to develop the land and use it effectively. Let us look into e-agriculture, smart agriculture and ensure we are connected as young people to the market. We appreciate what the government has done by ensuring there is youth quota in land allocation,” Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services Honourable Tatenda Mavetera
The legislative framework around land ownership was also highlighted with Masvingo province presenting available opportunities for young people in the agriculture sector.
“As youths, we have got an obligation from our Constitution to work for our country. Our government gives us equal opportunities and there is a legislative framework that supports that. It is our time as women and youths to grab that opportunity and empower ourselves,” Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development Honourable Yeukai Simbanegavi noted.
“We want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his administration for coming up with this new land tenure system. The new system encourages farmers to be investing and be productive on their land,” Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Ezra Chadzamira added.
The programme organised by the Young Women 4ED saw youths having an interactive question and answer session with the guests resulting in others winning business starter packs while 140 students were given scholarships with Masvingo Polytechnic receiving 20 computers.
