Staff Reporter
The Presidential Heifer pass-on scheme is making significant strides in empowering young people, with its latest distribution benefiting 86 youth farmers in Mashonaland West Province.
Launched two years ago by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the scheme is transforming the lives of many and providing a pathway for youths to venture into cattle farming.
Speaking at the handover event last Saturday, Mashonaland West’s Minister for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, highlighted that the Government was working to secure land for the youth to further bolster the empowerment efforts.
"I’m excited to have officially handed over these heifer cattle. We want our youths to be economically empowered, and the onus is now on them to maximise these government programmes. Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, we are also addressing land allocation for young people to complete the cycle," said Minister Chombo.
ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Youth League Chairperson, Tapiwa Masenda, emphasised how the scheme is addressing key issues faced by the youth.
“We want to thank President Mnangagwa for prioritising youth inclusion in the country’s economic affairs. Beyond the cattle, we have received tractors, land, and numerous other opportunities. By empowering the youth, we are tackling challenges such as drug and substance abuse," he said.
Designed as a way to boost both economic independence and national livestock production, the programme has been widely praised by its beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, saying that the scheme, which involves young people receiving cattle to breed and eventually pass on to other beneficiaries, has fostered a strong sense of community and responsibility.
"Our President has shown once again that he has the young people at heart. This is an inclusive programme, and we are excited that it will soon be complemented by land provision, enabling us to be fully empowered and work towards Vision 2030,” said Tilda Muchena, a beneficiary.
Another beneficiary, Gilbert Musoni, added that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. We have been given the start, and now it’s up to us to make the most of it. We need to encourage each other to take full advantage of these opportunities,” said Musoni.
The Presidential Heifer Pass on Scheme is part of Government’s broader effort to uplift vulnerable communities while boosting Zimbabwe’s national herd.
The initiative’s success has sparked hope among young farmers, with many eager to take advantage of the opportunities provided and contribute to the country’s long-term development goals.
