By Flata Kavinga
The Zimbabwe Ex-Political Prisoners, Detainees and Restrictees Association Children’s Trust (ZEPPEDRA Children’s Trust) has thrown its support behind the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, saying the changes will allow the government to continue implementing development programmes.
Speaking in an interview with this publication on the sidelines of the restructuring of the Midlands provincial leadership at the ZANU-PF Kwekwe District offices, ZEPPEDRA Children’s Trust national chairperson Lovemore Chikukwa said the association supports the amendment which seeks, among other provisions, to extend the term of office of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Chikukwa said the organisation was mobilising children of former political detainees to join the association and participate in national development initiatives.
“We are mobilising all ex-detainees’ children to join the association. The association aims at defending the country’s legacy and the gains made after the liberation struggle,” he said.
He said the proposed constitutional amendment would give the President more time to implement development programmes under Vision 2030.
“The amendment will give the President more time to fulfil Vision 2030, promote economic development, youth empowerment and job creation,” Chikukwa said.
He added that the organisation welcomed what it described as positive economic developments under the current administration.
Chikukwa also encouraged children of former detainees to take advantage of empowerment opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture and mining.
“We are going around the country urging ex-detainees’ children to join empowerment programmes in agriculture and mining. Many of our parents were allocated farms and we must take agriculture seriously as one of the pillars of economic growth,” he said.
He said the association was also assisting members interested in mining to formalise their operations.
Chikukwa further welcomed government youth empowerment initiatives, including revolving funds meant to support young entrepreneurs.
“We thank the President for introducing youth empowerment revolving funds. Although we are yet to receive the funds, we believe we will benefit soon. These funds will help young people start businesses in areas such as agriculture and mining,” he said.
He urged young people to avoid drug and substance abuse and to contribute positively to national development.
“We must remain united and focus on building our country,” Chikukwa said.
