Government has intensified efforts to revive the Jairos Jiri Agricultural Training Centre in Masvingo as part of broader plans to transform the institution into a thriving agricultural production and disability empowerment hub.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Ezra Chadzamira, yesterday led a delegation to the centre in Ward 2 to assess ongoing preparations for the province’s upcoming disability expo and review progress on the revitalisation programme.
Speaking during the visit, Minister Chadzamira said Government was committed to restoring the centre’s productive capacity and improving the livelihoods of persons with disabilities through sustainable income-generating projects.
“We want to bring this place back to life and turn it into a centre of excellence. The goal is to establish projects such as fish farming, horticulture and vegetable production that will enable beneficiaries to generate income and contribute to economic development.
“Persons with disabilities must be empowered to participate fully in economic activities. Through Vision 2030, no one should be left behind, and institutions such as Jairos Jiri have a critical role to play in achieving inclusive development,” he said.
Several Government departments and stakeholders pledged support towards the revitalisation programme. The Forestry Commission committed to planting trees, the Department of Public Works pledged to rehabilitate infrastructure, Agritex proposed the establishment of four fish ponds, while ZIMWA has already drilled a borehole to improve water supply.
Centre Manager, Antony Dhikinya welcomed the intervention, saying it would significantly improve operations and the welfare of beneficiaries.
“We are grateful for the support being mobilised by Government and its partners. These developments will enhance our capacity to train beneficiaries and improve the sustainability of our programmes,” he said.
The Jairos Jiri Association, founded by the late Jairos Jiri, operates centres across several districts in Masvingo Province and has long played a critical role in supporting persons with disabilities.
Stakeholders expressed confidence that the planned interventions would transform the centre into a vibrant agricultural, training and empowerment institution serving the wider community.
