Story by Gay Matambo
THE Presidential Heifer pass on scheme has been lauded for empowering youths and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Masvingo Province.
28 youths drawn from all the districts in Masvingo Province are the latest to benefit from the Presidential Heifer pass on scheme, amid appreciation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“I am happy with this empowerment programme that our President rolled out for us. We have been empowered as youths so that we fend for ourselves. I’m truly grateful because the programme is targeting all of us, whether male or female,” a beneficiary said.
“Our economy is agro-based hence through such projects, we are happy to be part of the people who are going to participate in the growth of Zimbabwe’s economy,” a youth said.
“This type of breed of cattle, is going to transform the livestock sector in our areas and let me add that the programme will eradicate issues to do with drug and substance abuse and unemployment in communities because the youth now have something to do,” a beneficiary said.
ZANU PF Youth League National Deputy Secretary for Finance, Cde Calvin Chauke said the scheme will ensure food security and nutrition for communities as beneficiaries are expected to pass-on the calves from the cattle they received to second line beneficiaries in a move meant to sustain the initiative.
“This empowerment initiative is going to transform our lives as youths. We expect that those who have benefitted will pass on the calves to other youths so that everyone benefits,” Cde Chauke said.
After handing over the heifers at Section 12 in Triangle this Thursday, the Director for Economic Affairs and Investments in Masvingo Province, Mr Clever Chingwara reiterated that those selling the heifers will be arrested and prosecuted.
“The province is prioritising youth on land and other empowerment avenues this year. The provincial wish is to grow our economy and increase the GDP of the province. I would like to take this opportunity to challenge the leading group for this programme in Masvingo to take good care of the heifers. I know that some of the beneficiaries will think that they can sell the heifers, but we will surely monitor this project,” Mr Clever Chingwara said.
Since its inception, the Second Republic has been spearheading various empowerment programmes for youths and women in line with its inclusive development agenda.
