Opposition supporters in Gutu Central have formed agricultural cooperatives to purchase farming supplies after years of alleged exclusion from government welfare programs. Matthew Takaona, who ran as an opposition candidate in the 2023 elections, oversaw the distribution of seeds to 20 members from 11 wards on Saturday at Mpandawana Growth Point.
The cooperative members began pooling monthly contributions of 10 dollars in February to buy maize seed, fertilizer, and groceries. Takaona said the initiative allows residents to prepare for planting season without depending on state assistance, which he described as degrading. He noted that participants secured their supplies by mid-October, ahead of the rainy season.
Raphinos Mapfumo leads the group, which aims to end what organizers call the enforced dependency on ruling-party handouts. Women's leader Sekwedzai Vhembo said the country needs leaders who prioritize citizen welfare. Wilson Run'anga credited opposition figure Nelson Chamisa with inspiring the self-help model that bypasses traditional distribution systems requiring long walks to registration centers.
The cooperative members began pooling monthly contributions of 10 dollars in February to buy maize seed, fertilizer, and groceries. Takaona said the initiative allows residents to prepare for planting season without depending on state assistance, which he described as degrading. He noted that participants secured their supplies by mid-October, ahead of the rainy season.
Raphinos Mapfumo leads the group, which aims to end what organizers call the enforced dependency on ruling-party handouts. Women's leader Sekwedzai Vhembo said the country needs leaders who prioritize citizen welfare. Wilson Run'anga credited opposition figure Nelson Chamisa with inspiring the self-help model that bypasses traditional distribution systems requiring long walks to registration centers.
