Story by Courage Bushe
A Village Business Unit (VBU) in Zvishavane has emerged as a transformative force within the community, enabling villagers to earn thousands of dollars from a modest three-hectare piece of land.
The establishment of the Mahlaba-Hungoedza Village Business Unit in the Mazvihwa area is transforming rural livelihoods by shifting farming from subsistence production to commercial agriculture, while boosting incomes in previously marginalised communities.
With the VBU producing crops throughout the year, food shortages are now largely a thing of the past for many villagers.
One beneficiary commended the initiative, saying it is already yielding positive results for the community.
“We commend the President and the Government for this well-thought-out initiative, and we are now seeing the fruits of it on the ground,” said the beneficiary.
Another villager highlighted the impact of irrigation infrastructure on agricultural productivity.
“Since our borehole was solarised and we began using drip irrigation, we have been able to grow cash crops throughout the year,” said another beneficiary.
A third beneficiary said the project has significantly improved household welfare.
“Households benefiting from this garden are experiencing improved financial stability, enabling them to invest in education, healthcare and other essential needs,” said the villager.
Agriculture Extension Officer, Mr Owen Chikava, applauded the community for embracing the initiative, describing it as a practical model for rural development and grassroots empowerment.
“This collaborative approach enables communities to manage and grow their businesses effectively. They have migrated from subsistence farming to market-led agricultural production, as can be seen from the produce here,” he said.
The Mahlaba-Hungoedza VBU, which forms part of the Government’s rural industrialisation agenda, is benefiting more than 80 families.
