A farming initiative at Chisase farm in Masvingo is gaining momentum as a model for empowerment and sustainable livelihoods for veterans of the liberation struggle.
Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs minister, Monicah Mavhunga, emphasised the need for practical empowerment of veterans in honour of their role during the liberation struggle.
She commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for establishing a dedicated ministry focused on veterans’ welfare and economic empowerment.
“He further availed strategic assets in agriculture, mining and tourism to the veterans and authorised the establishment of the Veterans Investment Holding Company to operationalise these assets,” Mavhunga said.
“The ultimate goal is to generate sustainable income that directly benefits the Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Fund.”
Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister, Ezra Chadzamira, facilitated access to the land for the Veterans Investment Holding Company.
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“This has allowed the company to enter into a partnership arrangement for production involving the War Veterans Association (Masvingo Chapter), the youth and the Chisase community, and is an indication of a strong example of inclusive development in action,” Mavhunga said.
She also outlined plans for similar initiatives across the province, including tourism, cattle ranching and fish farming projects at Lake Kyle, Nuanetsi Ranch and Tugwi-Mukosi Dam.
“Once operational, these projects will significantly contribute to the province’s GDP, create employment opportunities and, most importantly, improve the welfare of the veterans,” she said.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in improving livelihoods for veterans while contributing to economic growth, food security and community development in Masvingo province.
War veterans have for years been appealing for land and for inclusion in other government empowerment projects away from freebies and hand-outs from politicians.
In 1997, the late President Robert Mugabe gave war veterans $50 000 in cash after succumbing to their demands for recognition for their role.