Cabinet Unveils Key Measures to Boost Agriculture, Tax Compliance, and Youth Empowerment By Takasununguka Ziki FOLLOW OUR CHANNEL: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCpLzu2f3EBYPSgI93M 13 February, 2025 | Zim Global Media News 🗞️ Harare - In a significant move to address critical national issues, the Cabinet appraised the nation on a series of measures aimed at bolstering food security, enhancing tax compliance, and empowering the nation’s youth. The Cabinet announced that the current grain stock at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) is sufficient to meet the needs of rural communities until the next harvest. This assurance comes as a relief to millions of Zimbabweans who rely on government-subsidized grain for their daily sustenance. The government has been closely monitoring grain imports, stock levels at millers, import prices, and sources to eliminate arbitrage opportunities. This vigilance is part of a broader strategy to stabilize grain prices and ensure that all citizens have access to affordable food. Government is confident that the current grain reserves will sustain rural communities until the next harvest season. This announcement is particularly significant given the challenges posed by climate change and erratic rainfall patterns, which have affected agricultural productivity in recent years. The government’s proactive approach to grain management is expected to mitigate the risk of food shortages and price volatility. In a bid to boost agricultural productivity, the Cabinet approved the 2024/2025 Summer Season Plan, which aims to increase cereal production to 3.2 million metric tonnes, up from 744,000 metric tonnes produced last season. This ambitious target reflects the government’s determination to achieve self-sufficiency in food production and reduce reliance on imports. Preliminary data indicates that about 99% of the targeted maize area for this summer season has already been planted. This marks a significant improvement compared to previous years, thanks to favorable weather conditions and the government’s support for farmers through inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation equipment. Government announced that it was ptimistic about the upcoming harvest. The high percentage of planted maize area is a testament to the hard work of our farmers and the effectiveness of government’s agricultural policies. The government’s focus on increasing cereal production is expected to have a ripple effect on the economy, creating jobs, reducing food prices, and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. In a groundbreaking move, the Cabinet announced that the use of electronic money will now be compulsory for all businesses. This measure is part of a broader strategy to enhance tax compliance, formalize the informal sector, and increase government revenue. The new policy will be implemented through the following key initiatives: Introduction of a Compulsory Tax Payment System: The government will introduce a compulsory tax payment system to ensure that every eligible taxpayer pays their fair share of taxes. This system will leverage technology to streamline tax collection and reduce leakages. Establishment of a Domestic Interagency Team: A Domestic Interagency Team will be established to ensure compliance with tax laws in the informal sector. This team will work closely with local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and financial institutions to identify and address non-compliance. Vendor Licensing Framework: A new framework will be introduced to ensure that all vendor licensing by local authorities is done in consultation with the Central Government. It will be mandatory for all vendors to be issued with Point of Sale (POS) machines and to open bank accounts upon registration or licensing. The mandatory use of electronic money is a game-changer for our economy,” said the Minister of Finance. “It will not only enhance tax compliance but also promote financial inclusion and transparency.” The Cabinet also announced that the 2025 National Youth Day Celebrations will be held at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo from February 20 to February 21. The event, which will run under the theme “Empower Youth, Secure the Future,” is expected to attract 20,000 youths from across the country’s ten provinces. The main event on February 21 will feature speeches, performances, and exhibitions showcasing the talents and achievements of Zimbabwean youth. In addition, youths in all provinces will be able to follow the proceedings in real-time at designated vocational training centers and institutions of higher learning. The National Youth Day Celebrations are an opportunity to celebrate the potential of young people and to reaffirm government’s commitment to youth empowerment. The government has also pledged to increase funding for youth programs, including vocational training, entrepreneurship, and access to education. These initiatives are expected to equip young people with the skills and resources they need to contribute to the country’s development. The decisions made during Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting reflect the government’s determination to address pressing national issues and lay the foundation for sustainable development. The focus on food security, tax compliance, and youth empowerment is particularly timely, given the challenges posed by climate change, economic instability, and high youth unemployment. As Zimbabwe prepares for the 2025 National Youth Day Celebrations, there is renewed hope that the country’s young people will play a central role in shaping its future. By empowering youth and addressing their needs, the government is not only investing in the next generation but also securing the long-term prosperity of the nation. While challenges remain, the government’s proactive approach and commitment to inclusive growth offer a promising path forward. As the nation looks ahead to the next harvest, the implementation of new tax policies, and the celebration of its youth, there is much to be hopeful for. ——————————————— Zim Global Media News 🗞️ an Afrocentric Voice https://www.zimglobalmedia.co.zw ———————————————