Mavhunga pays Harare victims after years of official plunder

Zimbabwe will restart compensation payments for war victims after more than twenty years of suspension. Minister Monica Mavhunga announced the decision during a press briefing in Harare yesterday. The Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs confirmed that medical boards will evaluate pending claims. The government suspended the program in 1998 following the Chidyausiku Commission investigation. Officials discovered widespread fraud and mismanagement within the compensation system.

The commission revealed that unqualified individuals received substantial payouts through system loopholes. Between 1991 and 1997, authorities distributed approximately Z$1.5 billion through the fund. High-ranking officials exploited weaknesses in administrative processes to claim benefits illegally. The original program aimed to support civilians and fighters injured during the liberation struggle. Underfunding of the War Veterans Fund caused many ex-combatants to seek alternative compensation routes.

War victims can receive artificial limbs, clothing allowances, and medical expense coverage. The ministry has already provided statutory benefits to 557 individuals. People who previously received commuted pensions remain eligible for medical benefits and other services.