By Jonah B Moyo
GWANDA – FARMERS from Bethel in Gwanda South have sold more than 6000 fruit trees, in the process raising money to upgrade their irrigation system and contributing to the upliftment of their livelihoods.
Progressive Horticulture Garden, a community-led initiative established by Hand in Hand Zimbabwe in 2018, has been a game-changer for the people of Bethel.
The garden is a thriving hub of entrepreneurial spirit, led by a group of 37 farmers, predominantly women, from the Bethel community. With determination to succeed, these women are driving their own empowerment, cultivating not only crops but also demonstrating economic independence and self-sufficiency.
The farmers’ dedication has yielded impressive results, including the recent sale of 600 lemon trees to the Forestry Commission, a testament to their hard work and determination.
Progressive Horticulture Garden chairperson, Tsamikang Dube, said the impact of the garden on their lives was immeasurable.
“When the garden was launched in 2018, we did not foresee its full potential. However, with guidance and support from Hand in Hand Zimbabwe and Forestry Commission, we acquired valuable knowledge and skills in farming.
“Initially, our nursery project seemed to be uncertain, and we doubted our ability to generate income. But Hand in Hand Zimbabwe intervened, helping us identify a potential customer. Now, we are thrilled to be earning,” she said.
Gertrude Ndlovu, another beneficiary of the Progressive Garden, shared how farming empowers women.
“As women we can now afford to pay our children’s school fees without relying on our husbands. We cherish our independence and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
“I urge all women to take a step and engage in farming, and empower themselves. It’s truly life-changing,” she said.
The farmers said horticulture had emerged as a viable source of income for them, enabling them to cover their expenses and improve their livelihoods. Encouraged by their success, the farmers are now keen to expand the project, with a focus on empowering more youths to join the initiative and benefit from this sustainable and profitable venture.
Hand in Hand Zimbabwe-Gwanda District Area Manager, Makhosonke Ndlovu, said the organisation aimed to empower the Progressive Horticulture Garden in Bethel to produce over 20,000 fruit tree seedlings.
“This ambitious goal will enable the garden to generate significant income from their nursery, improving the livelihoods of community of Bethel.
“The fruit trees are priced between $1 and $5, depending on the tree variety, if these farmers treat this venture as a serious business, they stand to earn substantial income from selling the fruit trees,” Ndlovu said.
He said that Progressive Horticulture Garden farmers had entered into a contract farming agreement with the Forestry Commission.
“This partnership enables the Commission to assist farmers in finding buyers for their trees, providing a stable market for their produce.
“This model can help small-scale farmers like those in Bethel to access markets, improve their income, and enhance their livelihoods,” said Ndlovu
