MARTIN MAWAYA
SHURUGWI—The private sector should invest more in communities, create jobs and support small businesses to ensure the gains of the liberation struggle translate into better livelihoods, River Valley Group chief executive officer Ambassador Smelly Dube has said.
Dube made the call during the 46th Heroes Day commemorations at Tongogara District Heroes Acre in Shurugwi, where River Valley Group sponsored the event and assisted widows and other vulnerable community members.
The business executive and philanthropist called for closer collaboration among government, communities and businesses to turn the ideals of the liberation struggle into tangible improvements in people’s lives.
“Government has its responsibilities, communities have theirs and the private sector has a role to play. When those efforts come together, we can achieve more sustainable results,” Dube noted.
She said the sacrifices of liberation heroes should be honoured by creating better opportunities and livelihoods for future generations.
“Honouring our heroes must also mean protecting the future they fought for. If we can contribute to stronger communities, better livelihoods and opportunities for the next generation, then we are giving practical meaning to their sacrifice,” she added.
Dube called for sustained private sector involvement in community development through skills training, job creation and income generating projects, emphasising that improving livelihoods should be a year round commitment for businesses.
Shurugwi District Development Coordinator and secretary for veterans of the liberation struggle Dennis Mabhena backed the call, saying private sector investment should consolidate the gains of the liberation struggle through improved livelihoods.
“The struggle was fought to improve the lives of Zimbabweans and if companies can help young people find work, support small businesses and strengthen communities, they will be helping to carry that struggle forward,” Mabhena said.
He urged Zimbabweans to safeguard the sacrifices of liberation heroes by ensuring communities benefited from the country’s resources through value addition.
For widows and other vulnerable households, however, immediate assistance remains critical as many struggle to meet basic needs.
One beneficiary, Locadia Madzudzu, welcomed the River Valley Group support but called for interventions that could help households become self-sufficient.
“We appreciate the assistance and if other businesses can emulate River Valley’s gesture and also help us with projects, skills or equipment to generate income, we can support ourselves,” she said.
