By Staff Reporter
Mudzi, Mashonaland East – More than 500 people have graduated from a government-backed basic skills training programme designed to promote economic empowerment and reduce drug and substance abuse in Mudzi District.
The initiative, facilitated by the Tonganyika Trust in partnership with Mudzi West MP Knowledge Kaitano, offered courses in welding, baking, detergent production, tailoring, and driving.
Part of the government’s broader Vision 2030 agenda, the programme targets marginalised groups, particularly women and youths, equipping them with practical skills to launch small businesses and foster self-reliance.
Graduates expressed optimism about applying their new skills to improve their livelihoods.
“I have been dreaming of becoming a professional caterer. This is it now. I have aced it. I now know that I will become a top-notch caterer who will transform the Mudzi West landscape,” said graduate Patience Chasakara.
“I received training in cutting and designing, and I’m now looking forward to sewing clothes and uniforms. My mother already has a sewing machine, and this training came at the right time,” said another graduate.
Kaitano said the programme was inspired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “leaving no one behind” policy, which prioritises inclusive development.
“To the congregation, to the graduates, I say there is a mantra that has been said by the President of this country, Dr. ED Mnangagwa, when he said, leaving no one and no place behind.
“Mudzi district is one of the districts that previously was left behind, but since the advent of the second republic, led by the ED Mnangagwa, we have seen that we are now being included in the development of this country.
“We are happy that people have participated, they are being involved,” said Kaitano.
He added that such empowerment initiatives play a key role in achieving Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
“These initiatives will improve livelihoods, help people afford food, clothing, and contribute to national productivity.
“Empowerment initiatives remain critical in ensuring the development of our communities,” said Kaitano.
“We have been engaging the Tonganyika Trust to equip our people with skills because it is very important given the threats of drug and substance abuse among our youths and gender based violence in communities.
“Now that they have received this training, some of them will be able to take care of their families and start small businesses,” added Kaitano.
Uzumba Maramba-Pfungwe–Mudzi Senator Jerry Gotora, who officiated at the graduation, praised Kaitano’s efforts.
“I have been in politics a long time, but I’ve never seen an MP so committed to uplifting his community,” said Gotora.
The Tonganyika Trust, founded by deputy tourism minister and Hunyani MP Tongai Mnangagwa, is implementing similar programmes across the country.
“We’ve partnered with organisations and MPs nationwide to deliver training. This is not our first engagement in Mudzi,” said Trust Coordinator Kudakwashe Ushe.
The event was attended by Zanu PF provincial and district officials, Mudzi RDC representatives, and local councillors.
This programme also supports national goals to reduce gender-based violence and youth drug abuse by promoting socio-economic resilience.
