By Mako Jerera
In a major step towards youth empowerment and agricultural development, the Government has handed over 700 heifers to young people across Zimbabwe’s ten provinces under the Presidential Heifer Pass On Scheme.
The initiative which was launched by His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa in February 2022, aims to empower the youth, enhance food security, and contribute to the rebuilding of the national herd.
The symbolic handover of 140 heifers to youths from Mashonaland East and Harare provinces took place on Friday at the Grasslands Research Station in Marondera. The event was attended by several notable figures, including Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs Mashonaland East, Hon Apolonia Munzverengwi; Manicaland, Hon Misheck Mugadza; Harare, Hon Charles Tawengwa; Masvingo, Hon Ezra Chadzamira; and Mashonaland Central, Hon Christopher Magomo.
The remaining heifers will be distributed from various centers in the other provinces. The beneficiaries, who received extensive training in animal husbandry and ideological education through the Chitepo School of Ideology, are now better equipped to manage their livestock and contribute to the country’s agricultural goals.
During the handover, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Hon Anxious Masuka, emphasized the Government’s commitment to supporting and economically empowering the youth, recognizing them as the future of the nation. He highlighted the importance of training in reducing losses and urged the beneficiaries to focus on proper cattle rearing, instead of selling the livestock to butcheries.
The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon Tino Machakaire, accepted the heifers on behalf of the youth. He encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the President’s vision of developing the national herd, which is central to ensuring food security and economic stability.
In addition, Hon Munzverengwi said the initiative was meant to empower the youth and enable them to thrive in the agricultural sector. “This initiative is not just about cattle. It’s about creating opportunities for our youths to thrive in the agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and promoting economic stability for our communities,” said Minister Munzverengwi.
The Presidential Heifer Pass On Scheme represents a significant investment in the youth and the future of Zimbabwe’s agriculture, fostering a new generation of empowered and skilled farmers.
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