By A Correspondent
The Zanu PF government has once again showcased its political maneuvering through the introduction of the “Goats4ED” initiative, a scheme presented under the guise of rural empowerment in the Midlands Province. This move is being heralded as a way to “uplift livelihoods” while conveniently aligning with the political agenda of President Mnangagwa and his party ahead of key political milestones.
The programme, formally launched this Monday at Vungwi Primary School in Shurugwi district, saw 100 goats distributed among 300 women from eight districts, who were handpicked to benefit from the Young Women 4ED goat pass-on scheme. The event was presented as an example of the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities, but many observers see it as a strategic attempt to bolster Zanu PF’s image and secure political loyalty.
One beneficiary praised the initiative, saying, “These goats will play a crucial role in changing livelihoods, especially here in remote areas, and we want to thank the government for this initiative.” Another added, “As young women, we are excited and hopeful for a better future from this gesture. This will surely empower us economically.” However, critics argue that such schemes are part of a broader political strategy to rally support for the ruling party under the banner of “economic empowerment,” while failing to address the structural issues that perpetuate poverty in rural areas.
The Young Women 4ED group, led by National Chairperson Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, was quick to endorse the programme, urging women to take full advantage of such government initiatives. Mavetera’s rhetoric, however, seemed to focus more on political alignment than genuine empowerment. She stated, “I want to take this opportunity to urge and implore ladies to take advantage of these government programmes. I believe this programme will leave you empowered economically.”
Government officials were eager to tie the scheme to broader development goals, with Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Owen Ncube touting it as a vital step toward achieving an upper-middle-income society by 2030. “We are happy with programmes that are being spearheaded by Young Women 4ED because they complement the government’s vision,” he declared. Yet, such statements are widely seen as political posturing, aimed at securing both financial and electoral support from rural constituencies.
In reality, the goat pass-on scheme is designed to boost the economic participation of small-scale women farmers—yet, its rollout coincides with a critical period in the lead-up to elections. While the stated objective is to empower women, many are left wondering if the true intent is to garner political advantage under the guise of rural development. The scheme’s ability to mitigate climate change and improve livelihoods, as suggested by government officials, remains to be seen, particularly in light of the ongoing economic challenges facing Zimbabwe’s rural communities.
Critics remain skeptical about the program’s long-term impact on rural development, questioning whether it is merely another political gimmick designed to maintain the ruling party’s hold over the electorate in an election year.