First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa Launches Poultry4 Vanambuya Empowerment Scheme
First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, through the Angel of Hope Foundation, has launched the Poultry4 Vanambuya Empowerment Scheme, distributing 5,500 free-range chickens to elderly women across Hurungwe’s constituencies.
Empowering Elderly Women Through Poultry Farming
The Poultry4 Vanambuya Empowerment Scheme is designed to provide sustainable livelihoods for elderly women by introducing them to poultry farming. The distributed chickens, sourced from Dr. Mnangagwa’s personal fowl runs, include breeds such as Boschveld, Sussex, and Koekoek, known for their high egg production and adaptability to local conditions.
Comprehensive Support for Agricultural Activities
In addition to the poultry distribution, the First Lady provided fertilizers to support the cultivation of traditional grains, emphasizing their nutritional value and resilience to adverse weather conditions. This holistic approach aims to enhance food security and promote healthy living among the elderly.
Community Engagement and Social Issues Addressed
During the launch, Dr. Mnangagwa engaged with the community, addressing issues such as environmental conservation, domestic violence, early child marriages, and substance abuse. She encouraged beneficiaries to work diligently and involve younger generations in the projects to ensure sustainability and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Alignment with Broader Agricultural Initiatives
This initiative complements other programs under the Agric4She umbrella, which focuses on empowering women in agriculture. Previously, the First Lady launched five Agric4She projects in Honde Valley, aiming to boost productivity and income generation for women.
Positive Reception from Beneficiaries
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, highlighting the potential of the scheme to improve their livelihoods. Gogo Mary Paradza noted that the project would enable her to support her grandchildren’s education and household needs, reflecting the scheme’s positive impact on the community.
Conclusion
The Poultry4 Vanambuya Empowerment Scheme exemplifies Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities through sustainable agricultural practices, fostering economic independence, and addressing social challenges in Zimbabwe.
