Mnangagwa neutralizes war vets with 100 tractors gift amid intensified Zanu-Pf infighting
By Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended a gif of 100 tractors to the Zanu-PF influential wing of War Vets in a move analysts believe is calculated to shore up support as intra party tensions escalate.
The War Vets played a pivotal role in Mnangagwa’s ascendancy to power and are believed to be key pillar worth buying support from as power struggles within the ruling party intensifies.
The tractors were handed over ceremony r by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka, who represented the President, at the ruling party’s headquarters in Harare.
Minister Masuka said the initiative recognises the immense sacrifices made by the nation’s war veterans in liberating the country.
“We will forever honour all of you, the brave men and women who took up arms to fight and dismantle the white colonial regime,” he said. “I was sent by President Mnangagwa to hand over this first batch. The President has so far secured 100 tractors, which are ready for collection after all due processes have been completed.”
Minister Masuka confirmed that the tractors are part of a larger ongoing programme, with more equipment expected for the veterans.
The consignment is currently stored at the Institute of Agricultural Engineering.
Under the scheme, President Mnangagwa has pledged to pay 50 percent of the total cost for each tractor.
The remaining balance will be paid by the beneficiaries through financing arrangements with the AFC Bank. The tractors will be distributed through the same bank.
Zanu PF Secretary for War Veterans, Cde Douglas Mahiya, commended President Mnangagwa’s generosity, describing him as a leader who listens to the people.
“It is in his wisdom that these initiatives finally materialise. President Mnangagwa created the War Veterans League to better understand our socio-economic needs. This is the result of our request for tractors some time back,” said Cde Mahiya.
He praised the President for his commitment and accountability.
Cde Mahiya clarified that the programme is for all war veterans who own farms, and seeks to enhance their land utilisation.
He urged those requiring tractors to apply through their respective provincial structures.
The handover was met with elation from the beneficiaries.
“I have been waiting for such an empowerment initiative. I am happy that President Mnangagwa listened to our concerns and delivered as promised. We promise to increase agricultural production to fulfil his wishes.”
Echoing her sentiments, Cde Thando Sibanda from Bulawayo Province said the President had made it possible for war veterans to access crucial farming equipment.
This tractor mechanisation programme is a component of a larger empowerment package for war veterans recently launched by the President, which also includes a US$2 million revolving fund to be shared equally among the country’s 10 provinces.
President Mnangagwa is scheduled to address the War Veterans League National Executive members in Harare Friday.
