Staff Reporter
Traditional Chiefs from have expressed gratitude towards President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent launch of the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Outreach Programme. The outreach programme was launched, today, at State House in Bulawayo. The Chiefs appreciated the national healing process, conveying that the exercise will promote unity and national development towards Government Vision 2030.
Speaking to this publication on the sidelinesof the event, Chief Dakamela of Nkayi said he is much committed to partake in the healing process so as to promote peace and unity among communities. He emphasised that once resources are availed, and the President’s Chief Council approves commencement of the programme, he would efficiently participate in the programme.
Chief Dakamela said, “The process is being spearheaded by Chiefs, but mostly led by the Chief’s Council. We will get an opportunity with the leadership to discuss the way forward. Once we have been granted a greenlight, and a greenlight is always in the form of resources, then we can start.”
Additionally, Chief Wasi, of Mangwe, Matabeleland South province, concurred with Chief Dakamela that the engagement processes will foster cohesion among affected communities and victims. She also commended President Mnangagwa for the developmental projects being implemented across the country’s provinces. However, she highlighted the need for Government toinstall irrigation schemes in her area of jurisdiction. She said the irrigation schemes will help to mitigate against food shortages which are being caused by persistent droughts that the nation has been experiencing due to the effects of climate change.
Furthermore, Chief Mabhena of Umzingwane applauded the President for the food relief programme, noting that the initiative was a step forward towards food security. She said, “I’m quite excited that our people are receiving grain from the Grain Marketing Board (GMB). This will go a long way towards enhancing food security.” Chief Mabhena also praised President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “living no one and no place behind” on the country’s transformational agenda. She said Matabeleland province is also witnessing a lot of infrastructure development projects.
Since assuming office in 2017, President Mnangagwa’s message has been centred on inclusive development. Currently, a number of roads are being rehabilitated nationwide. The developments are a symbol of President Mnangagwa’s Vision, of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper middle income economy by 2030.
