_Mushagashe Community Unites to Safeguard Presidential Fishery Project_ *By Tafara Pande* Masvingo - A pivotal community meeting was held today at Mushagashe Vocational Training Center, drawing together a wide range of stakeholders, including government departments, local leadership, law enforcement, and conservation groups. The meeting aimed to strengthen community participation in protecting a fishery project initiated under the Presidential Livelihood Empowerment Program. Mushagashe Dam is among the selected sites set to benefit from a donation of 4,000 fingerlings from His Excellency, President Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, under the guidance of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training. The session was attended by key delegates, including, Councilor J. Chikoore (Ward 3, Masvingo North Constituency), under Hon. MP Brian Mudumi, Miss Muzondo, Ward Youth Coordinator (Ward 3), Mr. Tavara Mudukuti and Mrs. Annah Rugumi, Programs Officers, Mr. Godfrey Mazarire, District Development Officer, Ministry of Youth, Mrs. Kutsirai Mushagashe, VTC Representative, Mr. Tonderai Mugova, Secretary-General, Family and Friends of Rivers and Lakes in Zimbabwe (FAFORALIZ) and Representatives from Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), and the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC). The workshop centered on community concerns about illegal poaching, which poses a threat to the sustainability of this landmark fishery project. Local residents expressed their determination to safeguard the project and ensure it becomes a success that can uplift livelihoods across Mushagashe and surrounding areas. “This is not just about fish. It’s about food security, economic growth, and community development,” said one of the community leaders. “We are grateful for the President’s support, and we are committed to protecting this gift.” Led by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Vocational Training and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, the workshop aimed to educate the community on the importance of aquaculture and the critical role it plays in economic transformation and environmental conservation. Mr. Chikoto from ZimParks reiterated the government's mandate to protect all public dams. “These dams belong to the people of Zimbabwe, and they are protected by law. Anyone caught violating that law will be held accountable,” he emphasized. The ZRP also echoed a strong warning against poaching, reminding community members that “preserving the integrity of government projects is a shared national responsibility.” The fishery initiative, part of a larger presidential program supporting four provinces, is expected to improve nutrition, create jobs, and generate local income. In Mushagashe, the project aligns closely with the development goals of the vocational training center and surrounding community. “The donation of fingerlings is just the beginning,” said Mr. Godfrey Mazarire. “We must now commit to nurturing and protecting this resource to ensure long-term sustainability and community benefit. *Edited by Godfrey Gusha*