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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24911, member: 2262"] Zimbabwe Expands Support Programs for War Veterans Zimbabwe's ruling party official, Douglas Mahiya, praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa's initiatives to improve the lives of war veterans through new economic and social programs. Mahiya, who serves as ZANU PF's Secretary for War Veterans, made these remarks at the launch of a Presidential War Veterans Fund in Bulawayo. The government has allocated US$1.5 million to support veterans' projects across Zimbabwe's provinces, with each region receiving US$150,000 in interest-free funding. Presidential Investment Adviser Paul Tungwarara said the fund operates on a revolving basis, enabling veterans to borrow money for projects and repay it for others to use. Mnangagwa created the War Veterans League within the ruling ZANU PF party, giving veterans direct representation in the party's highest decision-making body, the Politburo. This move established a formal channel for veterans to participate in policy discussions and voice their concerns. Mahiya highlighted past challenges faced by veterans since 1980, including an underfunded United Nations Disarmament, Demobilisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration program that left many in poverty. The new initiatives aim to address these historical shortcomings. The government has set an ambitious target of US$1 million in funding access for each province by June 2025, provided the initial funds receive proper management. The support extends beyond financial assistance through the Presidential War Veterans Borehole Scheme, which plans to provide water access at veterans' homesteads. Two drilling rigs have arrived in Matabeleland provinces to begin this work. These programs represent a shift in government policy toward veterans, focusing on economic empowerment and practical support. Tungwarara emphasized the importance of recognizing the veterans' contributions to Zimbabwe's independence through meaningful assistance programs. [/QUOTE]

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