By Rangarirai Shanyurai
People with Disabilities in Masvingo (PWDs) have raised concerns for being left out of a number of governmental projects particularly the allocation of sugarcane plots in Chiredzi recently.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting on the state of healthcare in Masvingo organised by TellZim in partnership with ZIMCODD at Chevron Hotel on March 27, one participant, Prazen Jakata said majority of PWDs were being left behind in various programmes.
“People with disabilities consistently advocate for inclusion in programmes like the Kilimanjaro project but sometimes we are left behind because many of us are not present when decisions on such important matters are made. I believe the media has a crucial role to play in this regard, we need information on such programmes.
“We are often misinformed or receive information that is difficult to digest. This is why the media should intervene,” said Jakata.
Addressing stakeholders at the same event, Masvingo Province Director for Economic Affairs in the Minister of State for Provincial and Devolution Clever Chingwara emphasized the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities of PWDs in sugarcane farming sector.
“People with Disabilities are complaining that we left them behind on the allocation of sugarcane farms and the likes but I think the government is looking into it.
“So PWDs representatives should approach our offices with their concerns and need for plots in Chiredzi. For sure if you do not voice out your concerns you might be left behind although the government is trying to include everyone,” said Chingwara.
Chingwara said government had availed 4000 of land for indigenous farmers.
“Throughout a public private sector partnership, I think you have seen us conducting business. The province has successfully allocated 4 000 ha of new sugarcane plots to indigenous farmers benefiting over 2000 farmers from all walks of life,” he said.
He added that they established a multipurpose innovation hub to promote economic development in the province.
“The establishment of a multi-purpose innovation hub in Mwenezi specifically for sesame and all cultural projects processing, represents a significance milestone and a testament to effectiveness of a viable public, private sector publicity funded by Southern Agricultural Deployment (SAD).
“This hub not only enhances local agriculture production but also adds value through processing thereby increasing income potential of farmers and fostering economic development in the province,” said Chingwara.
