Relief for Chivi villagers

Comment & Analysis
NGUNDU — Several poverty-stricken families in Chivi South are set to benefit from an agricultural scheme, Zunde raCouncillor project

NGUNDU — Several poverty-stricken families in Chivi South are set to benefit from an agricultural scheme, Zunde raCouncillor project, launched by Ward 31 councillor, Killer Zivhu last week.

BY OUR CORRESPONDENT

The project involves growing exotic trees for sale, and maize and vegetables that would be used to feed needy families including orphans in the ward. Speaking at the official launch of the scheme, Minister of State for Liaising on Psychomotor Activities in Education and Vocational Training, Josaya Hungwe said there was need for villagers to work hard to avert hunger in Chivi.

“The President told me to take care of vocational skills and we are happy that an opportunity has come for the villagers to work to reduce poverty and hunger [through the scheme],” said Hungwe.

He added that there was need for the villagers to utilise the project, so that it could translate into development for the ward. Zivhu said the project was designed to reduce poverty in his ward, where villagers —like in the rest of Chivi — perennially face food shortages due to dry climate conditions.

“There is hunger but we have to work with the community, and here we are privileged to have Tokwe-Mukosi dam with us and we will utilise that for our benefit,” he said.

For a start, said Zivhu, the project is expected to produce at least 10 tonnes of maize.

“So far, we have planted maize, tomatoes and cabbages. We also have some trees,” said Zivhu.

Villagers who spoke to Standardcommunity said they were happy that the councillor was bringing development in the area.

“This is a good idea,” said Mike Muchawapa. “Some orphans will be able to go to school [from the proceeds of the project] and also help reduce poverty here in Chivi.”

Chivi is one of the several areas in Zimbabwe which are facing serious food shortages.

The World Food Programme (WFP) has estimated that 2,2 million Zimbabweans would need food assistance before the next harvest.