Dumisani Ndlovu
SHURUGWI – Veteran farmer, Rodwell Mbirimi, is spearheading a transformative initiative to bolster food security and drive economic growth by adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
His pioneering efforts are focused on empowering local communities to in-crease their annual crop harvest and secure their livelihoods.
The 45-year-old farmer, widely recognised for his dedication to promoting sustainable horticultural farming, envisions a future where Shurugwi’s agricultural output not only meets local demand but also creates robust economic opportunities for its villagers.
Mbirimi donated goods worth US$750 at a recently held Ward 21 Dorset Re-settlement Area Agriculture Show, where several farmers won prizes.
His comprehensive plan centres on empowering individual farmers and com-munity groups to adopt practices that are both productive and environmentally sound.
“As a local farmer, my approach is not just about growing more food; it’s about growing smarter and together,” said Mbirimi.
“By supporting grassroots farmers, I create a vital platform for sharing knowledge, resources, and collective action. Sensitising these farmers about the long-term benefits of these farming interventions is crucial for their active and sustained participation.”
A key pillar of Mbirimi’s strategy is building the capacity of households to make informed and sustainable agricultural choices, particularly vital in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
The initiative emphasises techniques designed to increase agricultural production while simultaneously ensuring qualitative produce with significantly reduced reliance on harmful pesticides and chemical inputs.
“Climate change is a reality we can no longer ignore. Our goal as Shurugwians is to partner with Agritex officials to equip farmers with the knowledge and tools to adapt, ensuring consistent yields even with less predictable weather patterns, all while prioritizing healthy, chemical-free food for our families and markets,” he said.
Through this community-centric model, Mbirimi aims to enhance the overall livelihood of Shurugwi’s farmers, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency. The holistic approach is anticipated to strengthen food security in Shurugwi and up-lift the economic standing of farming communities.
The focus on sustainable practices also promises long-term environmental ben-efits, preserving soil health and biodiversity for future generations.
Mbirimi is actively demonstrating the impact of innovative techniques at his homestead in Mukandapi, Shurugwi, where he exhibits the water-saving and yield-enhancing benefits of irrigation systems for greenhouse and open-field sugar bean production.
He actively supports small-scale farmers in integrating into larger markets, promoting the recognition of family farming and smallholder rights, and shaping policies for agriculture and sustainable development.
His work further contributes to generating employment and social integration, reducing poverty, and improving food security.
Shurugwi farmers are also gaining crucial knowledge and experience in evidencing the positive role of family farming and smallholders in combating cli-mate change.
