HARARE, Apr. 24 (NewsDay Live) – Zanu PF affiliate Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) Trust says it has mobilised 5,000 volunteers nationwide to support the ruling party’s grassroots operations.
FAZ first drew attention ahead of the August 2023 elections amid allegations from critics that it operates as an arm of the state security apparatus.
At the time, reports linked then retired army officer — now Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander — Walter Tapfumaneyi to the group’s leadership. He was then serving as Deputy Director General in the President’s Office.
FAZ president Kudakwashe Mavhula Munsaka dismissed the characterisation, saying the organisation is focused on youth empowerment and community-based initiatives, with more than 5,000 volunteers on its books.
He said FAZ is rolling out projects in mining and transport aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and skills development.
“We are finalising investments in key sectors such as mining and transport to empower our members across the country,” Munsaka said.
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He added that FAZ structures have remained active since 2023, describing members as “not seasonal” but consistently engaged in mobilisation efforts.
“Our task is to advance the mandate of Zanu PF and ensure its ideology — gwara regutsaruzhinji (the people’s way) — is understood at grassroots level,” he said.
FAZ is widely reported to have been established to support Zanu PF’s mobilisation and ideological outreach, and has since evolved into a key affiliate involved in voter mobilisation, political education and grassroots engagement.