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“Rome was not built in a day,” these were the words of Dr. Paul Tungwarara, President Mnangagwa’s Advisor when he was clarifying that the empowerment initiatives for liberation war fighters would reach every one of them over time.
Among the empowerment projects being spearheaded by Dr. Tungwarara on behalf of the President is the Presidential War Veterans Fund so far disbursed to the provinces of Masvingo, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Bulawayo, and Midlands.
The fund, which totals US$1.5 million nationwide, is part of President Mnangagwa’s efforts to support veterans who played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“Rome was not built in a day. These programmes will reach all war veterans. We do it gradually. The War Veterans Fund will reach all the 10 provinces. The fund will also increase over time. Initially, we are testing the war veterans’ capacities to put the money to good use. This is seed capital,” Dr. Tungwarara said.
The initiatives for war veterans aim to improve their livelihoods and recognize their contributions during the armed struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence.
Dr Tungwarara said exciting news that there will be education and training programmes to provide war veterans with skills training in areas like agriculture, entrepreneurship, and technology.
In addition, the government is offering educational scholarships to war veterans and their dependents. War veterans are also assisted with agricultural inputs, equipment, and training to enhance their farming productivity.
In terms of health and wellness, war veterans are also given with access to medical care, including mental health services. There are also rehabilitation programs for war veterans with physical disabilities.
