In a move that underscores the Second Republic’s continued commitment to honouring the sacrifices of liberation war veterans, the Government of Zimbabwe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prevail Group of Companies, a private developer, to roll out the Presidential Stands for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Programme. The tripartite agreement, involving the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, and the private firm, marks a significant stride towards fulfilling constitutional obligations relating to the welfare of liberation fighters.
Under this agreement, at least 50 000 veterans of the liberation struggle will be allocated residential stands, with the developer responsible for ensuring that essential infrastructure and amenities are delivered in a structured and dignified manner. The initiative not only provides shelter but also symbolises national gratitude and recognition for the role veterans played in securing Zimbabwe’s independence.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Senator Monica Mavhunga, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to implementing inclusive welfare policies for veterans. “The Second Republic is concerned about the welfare of veterans. We are glad that we are fulfilling what is required by the statutes of the constitution. The first phase will benefit 50 000 veterans of the liberation struggle and we are going to do the programme transparently,” she said.
The programme’s foundation rests on Section 23 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which mandates the state to ensure the welfare of war veterans and to reserve 20 percent of all developments for their benefit. Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon Daniel Garwe, emphasised the constitutional imperative behind the initiative: “As a ministry, we are here to honour that provision in the Constitution. These agreements for the development of stands for war veterans is part of that effort.”
Prevail Group of Companies’ chairperson, Dr Paul Tungwarara, expressed readiness to deliver on the government’s vision. “We are happy to be part of this initiative. We are ready to start the work so that war veterans can benefit from this initiative,” he said, signalling the beginning of a large-scale developmental effort with national social significance.
The residential stands project complements other ongoing initiatives targeted at war veterans, including the Presidential War Veterans Borehole Programme and the Presidential War Veterans Housing Scheme. Together, these efforts constitute a holistic and sustainable approach to reintegrating and uplifting the livelihoods of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s liberation.
By blending private sector capacity with public sector policy, the Presidential Stands Programme serves as a blueprint for future veteran welfare projects, while reinforcing the principles of equity, honour, and national development enshrined in Zimbabwe’s Constitution.
