Mnangagwa bemoans divisions in Zanu-PF

Published: 6 hours ago

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday called on members of the Zanu-PF Women's League to reject division within the ruling party, which continues to grapple with factionalism over succession.

Speaking in Harare during the launch of the Zanu-PF Women's League Empowerment Fund, Mnangagwa urged unity, warning against attempts to fragment the wing.

"Expose, denounce and reject those who try to fragment the women's league and divide the party," he said. "Finally, I commend you all and our partners for the unity of purpose in our party work and the implementation of programmes and projects."

The appeal comes amid growing debate over calls from Mnangagwa's supporters to extend his term in office beyond the constitutional two-term limit, which ends in 2028. While some within the party are pushing for him to stay on until 2030, Mnangagwa has repeatedly stated that he will step down when his term ends and allow both the party and the nation to choose a new leader.

Turning to the new empowerment initiative, Mnangagwa said the programme would play a transformative role in uplifting women across the country.

"The Presidential Women's Empowerment Fund is designed to be a powerful engine for economic growth, social inclusion and transformation to ensure development that leaves no one and no place behind," he said.

He emphasised that women's economic empowerment was central to national development, noting that families and communities thrive when women are financially independent.

"Most women by nature are builders and agents of transformation. Under the guidance and leadership of the women's league, the women of our country will be enabled and motivated to work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come," he added.

Mnangagwa stressed that the fund would benefit all women in Zimbabwe and urged inclusivity in identifying beneficiaries. He said empowerment must go beyond financial aid to include skills development and knowledge transfer to strengthen households and communities.

"The fund we are launching today is, therefore, a holistic empowerment tool that encompasses economic independence as well as social, emotional and intellectual growth," he said.

The President also applauded women for their resilience in the face of economic sanctions and climate change, commending their entrepreneurial efforts in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, construction and other sectors.

"Your business and entrepreneurial undertakings are creating jobs and economic opportunities in our communities. Additionally, through philanthropy and volunteerism, you are driving social inclusion, unity, cohesion and development," he said.

Mnangagwa urged beneficiaries of the empowerment programmes to pursue viable and sustainable projects that generate profits, meet market demand and contribute to export-led growth.

"Your projects must have clear market demand and should demonstrate potential for growth and profitability, while having broad-based impact," he said.

The Zanu-PF Women's League Empowerment Fund is expected to support projects that create value chains in high-growth industries while promoting women's participation in the economy.
- Newsday

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