Story by Tamuka Charakupa
VILLAGE Business Units (VBUs) continue to play a pivotal role in transforming rural livelihoods, with the Kabhanga VBU in Sanyati District emerging as a model of community-driven development.
The project, established in September last year, brings together 42 community members, 22 women and 20 men, who are working collectively to improve food security, generate income and enhance access to clean water.
At the centre of the initiative is a solar-powered borehole that supports irrigation activities while also providing safe and reliable water to surrounding households.
Chairperson of Kabhanga VBU, Mrs Gladys Vunganai, said the project has significantly improved agricultural productivity in the area.
“This borehole has changed our lives. We can now irrigate our crops throughout the year, even during the dry season, and our yields have improved significantly,” she said.
Beneficiaries say the initiative is opening new opportunities, particularly for young people in the community.
“We want to thank the Second Republic for this programme. Through this project, we see a better future. Our goal is to expand production and create opportunities for youths so that we eliminate the scourge of drug and substance abuse,” said Mr Muchineripi Matambo.
Beyond agriculture, the availability of clean water has reduced the burden on households, especially women and children who previously walked long distances to fetch water.
“We no longer worry about water shortages. Access to clean water has improved our health and allowed us to focus on productive work here at the VBU,” said Mr George Gwai.
Another beneficiary, Mr Idah Zinyama, said the solarised borehole has ensured water security for both domestic and agricultural use.
“Having a solar-powered borehole is a game-changer for this community. It guarantees clean water throughout the year for household consumption as well as for our livestock,” he said.
Sanyati legislator and Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Honourable Dr Polite Kambamura, reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Village Business Units through continued investment in water infrastructure.
“We currently have 27 Village Business Units across Sanyati District, and to enhance their productivity, 43 more boreholes are ready to be solarised. We are hopeful that by the end of this year, this process will be complete,” said Dr Kambamura.
He said the VBU programme is aimed at ensuring reliable water supply for irrigation and domestic use, while empowering communities economically.
“These projects are not just about farming. They are about transforming rural livelihoods and building resilient communities,” he added.
Village Business Units remain central to government’s rural development strategy, promoting food security, access to clean water and sustainable economic empowerment.
