By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Director of the Zimbabwe Women Resource Centre and Network, Ms. Thokozile Ruzvidzo has praised the 2025 national budget, presented by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube for setting aside ZiG670 million for rural development.
During a post-budget seminar for parliamentarians held at the new Parliament Building, Ms. Ruzvidzo highlighted the importance of this allocation as a fundamental component of the budget.
She stated, “The proposal to allocate ZiG670 million for rural development initiatives is a significant highlight. It focuses on adding value to agricultural products, boosting community incomes, and ensuring food security at the household level.”
Emphasizing the need for accompanying training and capacity-building efforts, Ms. Ruzvidzo argued that the funds should not only be distributed but also leveraged to empower beneficiaries.
“While many women and young entrepreneurs in rural areas possess solid educational backgrounds, they often lack the essential business management skills necessary for running successful enterprises. It is vital to equip these groups with the tools they need to create sustainable projects,” she explained.
This funding is seen as a crucial move towards enhancing rural productivity, promoting value-added agricultural practices, and tackling urgent food security challenges.
Ruzvidzo’s comments reflect a broader concern for empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, who play a critical role in bolstering the economy.
As discussions continue regarding the practicalities of implementing this budget allocation, stakeholders remain optimistic that the funding will lead to significant improvements in rural communities, fostering resilience and contributing to the overall economic growth of the nation and the country’s dream of creating rural industrial hubs.