THE story of the 51 subsistence farmers in Lower Gweru, is one of hope and determination which
should inspire other communities.
These farmers have realised the potential that their Ekhukhanyeni community gardening project can
become even bigger and operate as a commercial farm. This is commendable and is what the
Second Republic has been talking about all along. It is time that we all- those who benefitted from
the land reform programme- take farming as a business and not be contend with producing at
household levels.
Their efforts deserve everyone’s support and should inspire other farmers who are struggling to
make ends meet to take note and think big like the Ekhukhanyeni community. The transition from
subsistence farming to commercial farming is not easy. It requires a significant investment of time,
resources, and effort.
In the case of the Lower Gweru farmers, they have already taken the first step by undergoing
greenhouse management training.
The greenhouse will allow for year-round production of crops, and the farmers now know the
potential profits that could be generated from selling their produce.
However, they face a number of challenges, including a lack of inputs and farming equipment. The
government's assistance in this regard would be crucial to the success of their project.
The potential benefits of the Lower Gweru farmers' project are significant. By transforming their
community garden into a commercial farm, they will not only provide a sustainable income for their
families but also contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and providing fresh produce for
the surrounding communities.
This project is a shining example of how agriculture can be used as a tool for economic development
and poverty reduction.
It is important to note that the success of the Lower Gweru farmers' project is not guaranteed. The
transition from subsistence farming to commercial farming is a complex process that requires careful
planning and execution. This is where extension services from the government is crucial
The farmers will need continous support and guidance to ensure that their project remains
sustainable and profitable in the long run.
This is a clear reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of farmers in the face of adversity.
Their determination to transform their community garden into a commercial farm is a testament to
the potential of agriculture to drive economic development and poverty reduction.
While the government's support in providing inputs and farming equipment is crucial to the success
of their project, members must learn to stand on their own in the long run. For now we hope that
the authorities will heed their appeal and provide the necessary assistance to get the project off the
ground.
Hats off to Intuba based in America for supporting Ekhukhanyeni with a wide range of farming
techniques, building of toilets as well as drilling a borehole and setting up of solar powered irrigation
system at the garden.
We hope that other stakeholders will chip in and assist with technical and financial support.
