Story by Tamuka Charakupa

YOUNG people have been challenged to embrace empowerment opportunities which have been availed by the Second Republic to improve their livelihoods in line with the aspirations of the National Development Strategy One.

The call by President Emmerson Mnangagwa for every citizen to participate in the economic development of the country is receiving buy-in from young people in the farming sector across the country.

One of them is Kudzai Nyahwedegwe from the Middle Sabi, who is now counted among successful farmers in Chipinge with a thriving tomato farming business.

“Our President, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa always says Nyika Inovakwa ne Vene vayo. When he underscores this message some think it targets only the old, yet we as young people have a role to play in national development,” said Nyahwedegwe.

Nyahwedegwe’s rented ten-hectare piece of land has become a source of livelihood for over 33 other young people employed at the farm.

“I now employ over thirty young people at my farm, but if i could have a big piece of land I can do even better. Right now I am renting and it’s not viable,” he added.

Middle Sabi Farmers Association chairman Mr Skumbuzo Thondhlana is impressed by the initiative.

“This farm is now being used as a model farm where we bring young people to come and learn. I am impressed by the number of young people who are taking a leading role in economic participation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Middle Sabi region is slowly reclaiming its status as a greenbelt after various government interventions meant to boost agricultural production in the area.