THE Government’s Rural Development 8.0 Programme is gaining momentum after the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) rolled out a goat project to pensioners in Gwanda, Matabeleland South Province this Thursday.
It was all joy for villagers under Chief Masuku in Magedleni area of Gwanda, as the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Edgar Moyo handed over the goat project to over 30 pensioners.
“We are looking forward to breeding these goats, thereafter, we can then sell them and share some profits, depending on how many we are, so that we can earn a decent living,” Chairperson of NSSA Gwanda Goat Project in Magedleni, Bani Dube said.
“We thank the government for coming up with such a project because it will benefit the people from this particular community for the betterment of their lives,” Chief Masuku added.
The local community has been implored to embrace the project and use it as an empowerment tool.
“This project is a powerful catalyst for growth, symbolising our shared commitment to empowering local communities and driving development. We anticipate that its impact will resonate deeply, enhancing our local economy and transforming lives,” Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe noted.
The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Edgar Moyo, reiterated the alignment of the project with the national blueprint for achieving an upper-middle-income society.
“This initiative aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030, which seeks to establish a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society, where no individual or community is left behind. This project complements the Presidential Goat Scheme that the government is implementing to empower communities.”
The project is supported by a solar-powered borehole, dip tank, goat pens and a thriving inventory of 55 Matebele goats and five Boer bucks
