Story by Jerold Sasa

THE Presidential Rural Poultry Scheme is transforming lives, with the people of Goromonzi in Mashonaland East Province proud to have a reliable source of living.

The Presidential Rural Poultry Scheme, whose main objective is to increase income and alleviate poverty through the commercialisation of poultry production in rural areas, has uplifted livelihoods in Goromonzi.

Villagers from Ward 16, who have chickens which are at various stages of growth, attest to the benefits of the programme.

“We used to have just five chickens, but as you can see, we are commercialising our poultry production for ourselves and the outside community,” noted Hebert Mutupira.

“As a woman, I am happy that I was empowered as I can now pay fees for my children,” said Mrs Rona Mutupira.

“This programme has improved our household food security and nutrition while at the same time getting economically empowered,” Mrs Letween Nemhara.

The veterinary service department is working with the farmers on the technical aspects through a training programme on the modern trends of poultry production.

“We decided to train these farmers after realising that some of them have limited knowledge,” Free-range Poultry Association President Mr Aaron Shamu.

Over 127 000 birds have so far been distributed to nearly 13 000 households in Mashonaland East’s five districts of Hwedza, Goromonzi, Mutoko, Marondera and Mudzi.