Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE Second Republic’s rural industrialisation agenda is gaining traction, with Village Business Units (VBUs) emerging as a practical mechanism for improving food security and livelihoods in communities previously on the margins of development.
Once on the periphery of development, the Gabara community under Chief Tshitaudze in Beitbridge is now a living testimony to government’s commitment to inclusive growth.
Where there was once despair, hope has been restored, with the community now boasting a thriving Village Business Unit that is transforming livelihoods and boosting agricultural production.
“We really thank the President for providing us with this project. If pests do not disturb our crops, we are assured of a good harvest because the field looks healthy. The President has shown great commitment to this community,” a villager said.
Another community member highlighted improvements in water access and productivity, noting that the intervention has fundamentally altered daily life.
“We did not have water or any projects before government intervened. Today, we are working hard and seeing results. The field is now becoming small for us, and we are considering expanding it and requesting an additional water tank because there is plenty of water in this area,” the villager said.
Government officials say the set objectives of the programme are being met, with Village Business Units playing a critical role in ensuring food security at household level.
Beitbridge West Legislator, Honourable Thusani Ndou, said the initiative is empowering communities, particularly women.
“This is empowerment, especially for women, as most of the members here are women, including the elderly, working together in unity. Government will continue rolling out Village Business Units in different areas, in line with His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision that no place and no person should be left behind. Beitbridge is a dry area, yet today we are growing maize and expecting good harvests,” said Honourable Ndou.
Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), government continues to safeguard national food security by prioritising agricultural productivity, value addition and rural development.
