Mnangagwa Demands Accountability for Presidential Empowerment Funds

US$1.5 Million Disbursed — Mnangagwa Wants Proof of Community Impact.

HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has instructed government departments and programme coordinators to produce detailed, province-by-province reports on the impact of the Presidential empowerment funds disbursed across Zimbabwe.

The directive follows growing public scrutiny over whether the multimillion-dollar initiatives are delivering tangible benefits to communities. Speaking at a ZANU PF politburo meeting in Harare on Wednesday, Mnangagwa emphasized the need for transparency and measurable outcomes.

“The various empowerment programmes that we continue to roll out should be diligently implemented to ensure that all projects realise their intended objectives,” he said. “The youth, the women and the war veterans programmes must continue to evolve to benefit more members.”

“Millions Disbursed to Support Livelihood Projects”

The empowerment initiative, spearheaded by Presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara, has channelled substantial funding to war veterans, women, and youths to support income-generating and livelihood projects.

One of the flagship programmes, the Presidential War Veterans Fund, has disbursed US$1.5 million nationwide, with each of Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces receiving US$150,000. The interest-free loans are designed to help veterans of the liberation struggle engage in productive ventures and contribute to national development.

Housing and Infrastructure Support for Veterans

In addition to financial support, the government has launched the Presidential War Veterans Housing Scheme, a pilot project aimed at delivering:

• 100 houses per province

• Borehole drilling to improve access to clean water

• 50,000 urban housing stands earmarked for war veterans

Empowerment Beyond Veterans

The broader empowerment drive has also seen millions allocated to women’s and youth entrepreneurship projects, with a focus on:

• Boosting self-reliance

• Creating employment opportunities

• Supporting community-based development

“No Room for Opportunism”

President Mnangagwa made it clear that he expects rigorous monitoring and accountability from all stakeholders involved.

“I expect detailed reports on the impact and extent that these projects have realised transformation in our communities, province by province,” he said. “There is no room for opportunism and a self-centred leadership in Zimbabwe. Our programmes and our projects must benefit the majority of our people,” he said.