Empowering the Next Generation The CZLWVA Bulawayo Province Meeting In a historic gathering at Davis Hall, the Children of Zimbabwe War Veterans Association (CZLWVA) held an inter-district meeting that brought together a plethora of influential leaders and enthusiastic members dedicated to the betterment of their members. The meeting, attended by prominent figures such as ZANU-PF Bulawayo Province Chairman Cde JB Sibanda and Political Commissar Cde Gangaidzo, showcased a collective commitment to empowerment and progress among the children of war veterans. A key focus of the meeting was the importance of registration for all members. Vice Chairman of the Bulawayo Province Cde Sam Mupedziswa, emphasized that every member must ensure their registration to facilitate project submissions. He outlined the requirements for eligibility, including a parent’s war veteran card, a birth certificate, and a government-issued identity card, stating that proper documentation would fortify their connection to the struggle for independence. Chairman Cde Nkosinathi Ndlovu further inspired the assembly by addressing the empowerment of children of war veterans. He highlighted the successful facilitation by National Chairman Cde Phineas Makombe, who secured funding through Dr. Paul Tungwarara's presidential advisory office. This funding, amounting to $500,000, is intended to support the children's entrepreneurial initiatives. Cde Ndlovu assured attendees that detailed instructions on accessing these funds would be communicated following project proposal submissions. He urged members to organize themselves into groups to streamline project execution. Cde Masikati, the Vice Secretary for External Affairs, echoed sentiments of empowerment by stressing the significance of the 20% quota for promotions and benefits. He reiterated the need for advocacy for nursing intakes benefiting children of war veterans and the urgency of paying school fees for all members. National Secretary for External Affairs Cde Gift Muhomba urged CZLWVA members to mobilize for the land tenure program, which will be further discussed by central committee member Dr. Tagwirei at the University of Science and Technology in the coming week. The highlight of the meeting was a passionate address from guest speaker Cde Jabulani Sibanda, who reflected on the unique contribution of children of war veterans, including the notable presence of Siqokoqela Mphoko, son of the late Vice President Cde Phelekezela Mphoko. Cde Sibanda spoke about the unity of identity among Zimbabweans, stressing that regardless of tribal affiliations, all citizens should embrace their Zimbabwean heritage. He encouraged the youth to actively mobilize for the ZANU-PF party, emphasizing solidarity among diverse professions like soldiers, taxi drivers, builders, and police officers. His message resonated with a call to reject division and work collectively for national progress. At the conclusion of the meeting, Cde Mpofu, the Commander of the National Youth Service (NYS) from Bulawayo Province, offered a heartfelt vote of thanks. Accompanied by NYS National Political Commissar Cde Bernard Nheta, Cde Mpofu expressed gratitude to the leaders and members for their participation and enthusiasm. He highlighted the importance of the ongoing preparations for the upcoming Heroes’ Celebrations, which would bring together the CZLWVA and the National Youth Service. Cde Mpofu reaffirmed the commitment to honoring the sacrifices of war veterans while encouraging the youth to take pride in their heritage and actively contribute to national development. He emphasized that through such gatherings, the spirit of unity and empowerment is fostered, ensuring that the legacy of the country's heroes is upheld and celebrated. The CZLWVA meeting exemplified a pivotal moment for the empowerment of youth, reiterating the significance of unity, registration, and empowerment as fundamental pillars for their future. As members left the hall, the spirit of motivation and determination lingered, reinforcing the commitment to uphold the values instilled by their veteran forebears and to forge a path of success for themselves and their communities. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaasbIG2UPBDgfC2Ge3b