Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THE Jairos Jiri Village Business Unit in Umguza District is emerging as a model for rural empowerment, with officials reporting that the initiative is improving skills development and food self-sufficiency at the institution.
The business unit which is part of a nationwide programme introduced by the Second Republic to drive rural industrialisation is providing students at the Jairos Jiri Vocational Training Centre with hands-on experience that complement their academic studies.
Chairperson of the centre Sanele Mlauzi said the programme has managed to reduce operational costs while strengthening practical learning.
“We are happy for the chance. As the Jairosi Jiri vocational training centre, we have benefitted from this project. We are now saving US$2 000 in food supplies while our learners are now doing their practicals from this farm. Our intended target is to expand and pursue animal husbandry under this piece of land. We are happy that the President has identified and implemented inclusivity.”
The government is intensifying the concept after recognising the impact of village business units in stimulating economic activities in rural communities.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said the initiative is a clear example of rural transformation at work.
“We are witnessing massive rural transformation in action through these VBUs. We are seeing impactful programmes by the President, where we are leaving no place and no one behind. Certainly, rural development must start from every village and the VBU at this institution is testament to the fact that if we start producing, we not only assist our institutions, but also get excess to market and income. The main aim is to uplift livelihoods, increase incomes, improve nutrition and food security at the local level,” Professor Jiri said.
Village business units are not only championing food security, but transforming livelihoods as the country journeys towards an upper-middle income society by 2030.
