By Jonah B Moyo
GWANDA – BROILER farmers from Gwanda have joined forces to launch a co-operative venture, aiming to significantly scale up their operations with a target of 5,000-plus broilers a batch.
After years of successfully running solo broiler projects on their homesteads and backyards, generating reasonable profits to feed their families and fund their children’s education, local farmers have decided to take their endeavours to the next level.
This year, they will embark on a large-scale co-operative broiler project, starting with over 5,000 chicks.
The co-operative venture is expected to increase not only the farmers’ profit margins but also create employment opportunities for the local community. With a collective approach to broiler production, the farmers aim to improve their bargaining power, negotiate better prices for their products, and ultimately contribute to the country’s food security.
As the project takes shape, the farmers are eager to tap into the growing demand for poultry products in the region and establish themselves as major players in the sector.
During a site tour of the project, interim vice chairperson of the Gwanda Chicken Project, Lindiwe Maphosa, revealed that the project’s concept was birthed in September last year.
“A small group of concerned individuals posed a thought-provoking question: ‘Why are local restaurants, such as Chicken Inn, being supplied by outsiders when we have the capacity to produce here in Gwanda?
“As Gwanda farmers, our ambition is to become the primary suppliers of chickens to local restaurants and food outlets in the region. We envision a future where our broiler project is recognised nationwide for its exceptional quality, making us the producers of top-grade poultry products,” said Maphosa.
She also revealed that they plan to sell their broilers at various stages, starting from two-week-old chicks, to cater to different customer needs and preferences.
“We will be offering broilers at various stages, including two weeks, four weeks, and six weeks, to accommodate different market demands. Some customers prefer younger chicks, so we will cater to that need, while others may want older birds. Our goal is to be inclusive and flexible, ensuring that every customer finds what they are looking for in our project,” she explained.
The vice chair also highlighted that Gwanda Chicken Project would promote young people and women.
“This project also prioritises youth empowerment, providing opportunities for young people passionate about broiler-keeping and entrepreneurship to develop their skills. We have already had several enthusiastic youths register to join our co-operative, and we are encouraging even more to come on board and be part of this exciting initiative,” she said.
One of the lead organisers, Magaweni Ndlovu, said they had trained people who would be working at the project.
“We are creating jobs for many in our community. So far, we have trained 50 individuals, who will work on this project daily, helping us maintain high standards and drive growth.
“We have successfully secured a spacious broiler house at the Zimbabwe Republic Police Old Camp, which will serve as the project’s hub. All operations will be centralised at this site. Looking ahead, our ambition is to expand into chicken hatching and become a leading supplier of day-old chicks,” he said.
Sisasenkosi Nkomo, a young member of the co-operative, welcomed the initiative, saying it will provide young people with a vital source of income and help them avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse.
“I am thrilled to be part of this ground-breaking initiative. This project will empower us youths by providing job opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and generating a steady income. For some, it will mean employment and a chance to break free from the grip of drug and substance abuse. This project is truly a game-changer,” she said
