Vendors for ED hail President’s Empowerment funds

THE Vendors for ED organisation has lauded the Presidential Empowerment Scheme, which disbursed funds to multitudes of vendors nationwide, while expressing optimism for the implementation of the reserved sectors policy in 2026.

 

In an interview, the Vendors for ED chairperson, Cde Samora Chisvo, described 2025 as a transformative period for the association, citing the successful rollout and circulation of the empowerment funds among members.

 

“We received Presidential Empowerment Funds, and the funds are already revolving amongst our members,” said Cde Chisvo. “We hope that as we go into 2026, those who have benefited will return the funds, and new tranches will be given to other batches so that the cycle continues.”

 

Cde Chisvo extended gratitude to His Excellency President Mnangagwa and the Presidential Advisor, Dr Paul Tungwarara, for recognising vendors as a critical economic sector.

 

“We are part of the value chain, connecting producers to end-users. Through Dr Tungwarara’s energy and passion, he visited our members across all provinces to distribute these funds,” he stated.

 

The chairperson reported significant membership growth in 2025, with most beneficiaries reinvesting in their stock, growing their enterprises and creating additional employment.

 

Looking ahead, Cde Chisvo highlighted the pivotal reserved sectors policy for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a move he credited to President Mnangagwa.

 

“We are most grateful for the President reserving sectors for SMEs. This offers a bridge for growth and allows us to major in those sectors. The competition from foreign nationals was intense in areas like retail shops and brick-making etc, which require no special technology,” he explained.

 

“As the Second Republic puts its citizens first, we, as small sectors, can now group together, acquire the required machinery, and move from primary vending into secondary production.”

 

One of the scheme’s beneficiaries, Ms Cecilia Gambwe, a vendor from Manicaland Province, attested to its impact.

 

“Yes, I benefited from the scheme. It helped me to secure bigger orders. I really appreciate what the President is doing,” said Ms Gambe.

 

“In 2026, I plan to expand my customer base and source stock directly from countries like China and Turkey. I hope the fund will help achieve this dream.”