Staff Reporter
Government has allocated US$1.5 million under the Presidential War Veterans Fund, with three provinces already receiving US$150 000 each as part of ongoing efforts to support the economic empowerment of the country’s liberators.
The fund, officially launched in Harare recently, will provide interest-free loans to war veterans to help them establish sustainable businesses and achieve financial independence.
Speaking at the launch, the Special Presidential Investment Advisor to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dr. Paul Tungwarara, confirmed that the first disbursement of US$150 000 was allocated to the Zimbabwe Political Prisoners, Detainees, and Restrictees Association (Zippedra) for Harare Metropolitan Province.
“As the Presidential Advisor, I have been sent to inform you that His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is contributing US$150 000 to the Zippedra Fund for Harare Province. This fund is accessible to all members to initiate their own projects, and the most significant aspect is that it will be interest-free,” Dr. Tungwarara announced.
The fund is part of a broader initiative that will be rolled out across all provinces, ensuring war veterans receive financial assistance.
Beneficiaries will be expected to repay the loans, which will sustain and expand the program for future recipients.
“The continuity and expansion of this fund will be determined by the honesty and diligence of beneficiaries in repaying the loans. As long as repayments are made, more veterans will benefit, and the fund can grow to accommodate greater needs,” Dr. Tungwarara emphasized.
Experts in economics and war veterans’ affairs have hailed the initiative as a progressive step towards empowering Zimbabwe’s liberators.
Economic analyst, Florence Kwechete, described the fund as a critical intervention in addressing financial challenges faced by war veterans.
“This initiative aligns with global best practices where Governments offer financial support to veterans. Providing interest-free loans is an innovative approach that can foster entrepreneurship and economic stability among war veterans,” Kwechete noted.
Political analyst, Calvin Chitsunge, also highlighted the fund’s potential to enhance stability and self-sufficiency among war veterans, reducing dependency on government grants.
“Historically, war veterans have played a key role in Zimbabwe’s socio-political landscape. This initiative not only acknowledges their contributions but also empowers them to be financially independent, which in turn strengthens economic stability,” Chitsungecommented.
The establishment of the Presidential War Veterans Fund marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s efforts to uplift its liberators.
As the fund expands, its success will largely depend on effective loan management, financial discipline, and sustainable business ventures initiated by war veterans.
With further disbursements expected in other provinces, Government officials and economic experts believe this initiative could set a precedent for future veteran support programs, ensuring Zimbabwe’s war heroes achieve long-term economic security.
