Mkoba South MP Calls for Disability Institutions Support in Parliament
n By Dumisani Ndlovu n nn n Harare - Mkoba South Member of Parliament, Honourable John Kuka, has called on the government to enhance its agricultural input support program for institutions serving people with disabilities. n nn n In a recen
anostrofy By Dumisani Ndlovu
Harare - Mkoba South Member of Parliament, Honourable John Kuka, has called on the government to enhance its agricultural input support program for institutions serving people with disabilities.
In a recent Parliamentary session, Hon. Kuka emphasized the need to transform idle lands belonging to these organizations into productive centers for skill development.
As the planting season approaches, he pointed out significant policy gaps, questioning the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWARD) on how the government plans to assist organizations like Mudavanhu, Jairos Jiri, and ZIMCARE in cultivating their substantial farmlands.
“What is the government's policy to ensure these institutions can grow crops, given their lack of inputs and implements?” He asked.
Hon. Kuka also noted that while these organizations own sizable plots, they often struggle to participate in national agricultural initiatives due to limited resources and their urban locations.
He highlighted the need for clearer registration processes for urban-based institutions.
In response, Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Hon. Professor Paul Mavima, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to inclusivity, stating that policies are designed to enable all arable landowners to contribute to food production.
He said distributing agricultural inputs at the start of the season is aimed at achieving nationwide food adequacy.
To facilitate support, Minister Mavima advised institutions with farmland to register with Agritex to qualify for assistance.
He assured that those who can prove ownership of agricultural land must receive the necessary support.
