By A Correspondent- Five cooperatives in Kariba have received new kapenta fishing rigs funded by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO), in a programme critics say has once again exposed favouritism towards Zanu PF supporters.

Launching the rigs, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa this week claimed the intervention was meant to replace old and unsafe vessels on Lake Kariba.

The beneficiaries are Lakefright, Nyanyana, Chawara, Mvurazhinji and Msampakaruma fishing cooperatives. SMEDCO has also acquired four more rigs for Binga.

“Today, we celebrate the success of Lakefright, Nyanyana, Chawara, Mvurazhinji and Msampakaruma Fishing Cooperatives,” said Sen Mutsvangwa.

But the handout has sparked anger, with critics questioning how the five were selected and why other struggling cooperatives on the lake were left out. They argue the programme has been turned into a political reward scheme for those aligned to the ruling party, while ordinary fishers continue to risk their lives in worn-out vessels.

Mutsvangwa tried to defend the programme by invoking President Mnangagwa’s mantra.

She said the programme gives practical expression to President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “Leaving no one and no place behind.” The beneficiaries and other cooperatives also completed a two-day training programme.

Critics say the slogan rings hollow when distribution appears selective and politically driven, leaving many behind.

The minister urged SMEDCO and other partners to extend financing to fish-processing equipment, solar drying, packaging and cold-chain infrastructure, and to back aquaculture and gillnet operators with ageing equipment.

She said Cabinet approved the Cooperative Societies Act Bill Principles in October 2026, and called on the cooperative movement to contribute to the review.

Opposition voices say such promises mean little if state resources continue to be channelled through partisan networks, turning empowerment programmes into tools for buying loyalty instead of uplifting all Zimbabweans.