Mnangagwa’s full statement on lockdown extension

Over and above the efforts made to date to strengthen the health sector, Government is enhancing funding to the health sector by an additional ZW$1 billion from the facility, which will see the up-scaling of the country’s hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

The funds will also be used to procure the much needed Covid- 19 testing kits, personal protective equipment (PPEs) for the medical personnel, and for the purchase of drugs.

An income tax break is hereby instituted with immediate effect for healthcare workers and health care institutions, for at least six months.

The funds to be availed to the productive sectors of the economy that include agriculture, tourism, mining, manufacturing and the MSMEs will be accessed through normal banking channels.  Concessional terms and conditions that include interest rate of 10 percent per annum, will apply. A grace period of six months and repayment periods varying from one to four years, depending on the nature and scope of business to be financed, will be applicable.

On another note, you will recall that, I held an indaba in Bulawayo last year with players in our creative cultural industry. Generally, this is an industry which thrives on crowds by way of shows, performances and exhibitions. Expectedly, the lockdown has denied this vital sector the crowds which are its vital lifeline.

I have therefore instructed the Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation, Dr Kirsty Coventry, to make a proposal to Government on how best this sector can be helped to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

We are optimistic that this ZW$18 billion Economic Rescue and Stimulus Package will re-launch the Zimbabwean economy on a strong trajectory, characterised by higher productivity and supportive of job retention and creation.

Turning to the education sector, we are all aware that the current Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted teaching and learning in schools, colleges and universities.

The ministries of Primary and Secondary Education and that of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development have been in constant consultations with parents, guardians, teachers, heads of schools, principals of colleges, university vice chancellors and teachers’ unions on how to ensure the safe re-opening of schools, colleges and universities. Discussions are ongoing.

However, it is clear that our country is not yet in a position to re-open schools, colleges and universities.

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