Story by John Nhandara
The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) has praised Zimbabwe’s Village Business Unit (VBU) model, describing it as a practical example of how community-led initiatives can drive rural transformation and inclusive economic growth.
During a tour of the Garanyemba Ward Drought Mitigation Centre in Gwanda, Matabeleland South Province, the APRM delegation observed how the model integrates agriculture, water management, and small-scale enterprise to strengthen community resilience and promote self-sufficiency.
APRM Lead Council Member for Zimbabwe, Ambassador Aly El Hefney, said the initiative demonstrates how locally developed solutions can effectively address poverty and promote gender inclusion.
“This alleviates poverty, and I am impressed by the model. I am also amazed that the big number of people who are working here are women, which shows to what extent women are involved, engaged in those developmental projects,” he said.
“If we can have this model replicated in all African countries, Africa will become better,” APRM International consultant Professor Masibo Lumala said.
Communities continue to reap maximum benefits from the establishment of the village business units.
“We have our villagers as beneficiaries of this project, which includes water storage tanks, a garden with drip irrigation facilities, and water troughs for livestock,” a villager said.
“This time we have green mealies which are ready for harvesting,” a farmer said.
“We are benefiting a lot through access to water and are now sending our kids to school as a result of this village business unit,” a parent said.
Meanwhile, the APRM delegation also visited the office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution and was briefed about the provincial economy.
Meanwhile, the APRM delegation also visited the office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution and was briefed about the provincial economy.
“We need to explore and tap more of our resources like Gold and lithium. Our provincial economy is largely driven by mining and Agriculture sectors,” Acting Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and devolution Matabeleland South Province, Mrs Lathiso Dhlamini Maseko said.
The APRM delegation is on a tour of the country’s provinces as part of their targeted review process, focusing on the country’s economic governance and management thematic area.
