*Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme Transforms Rural Livelihoods in Mashonaland East* *07 February 2025* *Staff Reporter* On Friday, 7 February 2025, a groundbreaking event was held in Changwe B village in Ward 9 ,Mrewa South District in Mashonaland East Province at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Kahuni in Macheke, where the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme was launched under the theme Transforming Livelihoods through Sustainable and Inclusive Aquaculture. The program, designed to empower rural communities, was attended by various local leaders, beneficiaries, and members of the community. The event saw the distribution of fish fingerlings to nine women, four young people, three war veterans, and three disabled individuals, all of whom are now involved in fish farming. With communities present in full support, the day was marked with a special celebration, including the slaughtering of a cow for a feast, symbolizing the success of the initiative. Ward Councillor Norest Chidima expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting how it will transform the livelihoods of local people. "This project has empowered our community to run its own sustainable ventures, allowing people to generate income, provide protein-rich food for their households, and create job opportunities," said Chidima. Hon. Noah Mangondo, Member of Parliament for Mrewa South Constituency, sent his representative to attend the event. He emphasized an open-door policy for constituents, encouraging community members to approach him for support whenever needed. "This program is just the beginning, and I am always available to help address any concerns or assist in the development of projects that empower our people," said Mangondo. Acting Provincial Director of ARDA, Mr. Karisto Masiwa, also praised the project, noting that the Zimbabwe Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) had provided critical training to farmers. “With the training we've provided, the beneficiaries now have the necessary skills to effectively manage their fish farming projects,” he said. The event also saw the handover of fish fingerlings by Mr. Makumbe, Director of FARD, and a tour of the newly stocked fish ponds, where the community was introduced to the basics of aquaculture. Mr Kudzai Greatman Chimusoro,Director in the Deputy Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution's Office in Mashonaland East Province standing in for Minister of State and Provincial Affairs Honorable Dr. Apollonia Munzverengwi, addressed the gathering, urging the community to embrace fish farming as a thriving business opportunity. “Fish farming is booming in Zimbabwe, and I encourage all communities to take full advantage of this program, ensuring they benefit economically and sustainably,” said Mr Chimusoro. Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Hon. Marapira, was also present and emphasized the importance of the program for rural development. "We are committed to ensuring that these initiatives succeed, providing communities with the necessary resources and knowledge to maintain and grow their projects," he said. While expressing their gratitude, the beneficiaries noted some challenges they face, including the need for reliable water sources, the lack of expertise to maintain fish ponds, and insufficient chemicals for pond management. However, they also highlighted how the financial literacy training provided has significantly helped them in managing their new ventures. "This project has not only provided us with a source of income for survival but has also improved the nutrition of our households by providing fresh fish," said one of the beneficiaries. As the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme continues to expand across the country, local communities like those in Macheke are benefitting from new economic opportunities and enhanced food security, paving the way for sustainable rural development in Zimbabwe. __________________________________________________________________________________ Distributed by : MACHEKE NEWS WhatsApp Link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GedhD85zHsJ3FoYorrAb1Y Facebook : MACHEKE NEWS Soundcloud: Nyazema Community Radio Twitter @machekenews YouTube Channel: Macheke Tv Email [email protected] ©️MACHEKE NEWS