PAMELA MACHIDHA
Innovative and smart approaches to farming have seen Neta group, a small farming cooperative in the rural areas of Neta, improving the livelihoods of its members and making a positive impact on resilient building and horticulture production.
The cooperative’s innovative approach to farming, including conservation agriculture and diversification into livestock, poultry, piggery, and goat farming, have resulted in higher yields and income for its members. Neta’s success is inspiring other farmers to adopt similar methods to reach new levels of productivity.
In an interview with the Diplomat, Neta group’s vice chairman, Piason Mushayi explained how the low rainfall and harsh weather conditions in region 4 and 5 of Mberengwa have made traditional farming methods difficult and how the group has turned the challenging landscape into a thriving agricultural community by adopting smart agricultural and irrigation techniques.
“The group’s innovative approaches to agriculture and irrigation have shown that, despite the region’s arid climate and lack of rainfall, progress is possible. By using smart techniques, we have been able to successfully grow a wide range of crops in a challenging environment, even without rain.”
“Through our combined efforts, we have been able to tackle the challenges of climate change by adopting innovative agricultural solutions. With a perennial river running through our area and a shadow of water table has enabled us to sink 30+boreholes, ensuring a steady supply of water for our crops. This saw us growing a diverse range of produce thats available locally throughout the year, eliminating the need for people to travel long distances to purchase a produce, said Mushayi ”
The group is committed to rural industrialization which will create jobs for local youth and help to reduce drug abuse in the area.
“Our primary goal is to make rural industrialization a reality in the area, creating new job opportunities for our youth and reducing the risk of drug abuse in the community. By keeping them busy and giving them a sense of purpose, we hope to build a brighter future for everyone who lives here, he said”
Another farmer, Tulani Ngwenya added that “our farming model has enabled us to produce a surplus of food, which has had a tremendous impact on the health and well-being of our community”.
“I am proud to say that the various farming projects I have undertaken have allowed me to earn a good living in my rural community. From my fish farm and livestock operations to my horticultural endeavors, I have created multiple sources of income that allow me to support myself and my family. I am honored to be a part of a thriving rural economy, and I look forward to continuing to grow my business and create a better future for myself and the community for many years to come, he said”.
Ngwenya stated that the lack of funding for essential equipment is one of the key challenges they are facing.
“Although our farming projects have been a success, we continue to face challenges due to a lack of funding for essential equipment. Without drip irrigation systems, solar power, pipes, tanks, and other resources, our efforts are limited. We urge the government and financial partners to support us with the necessary resources for us to grow and thrive. With their help, we can reach new heights and truly make a difference in our community.”
An inspiring female farmer from the Neta group, Rosemary Hove is setting an example for other women by encouraging them to pursue financial independence through farming.
” For women, farming can be a route to financial independence and a way to escape abusive situations. When you view farming as a business, rather than simply a means of survival, you can generate income from selling your crops, supplementing your husbands’ income and sending your children to school. (Vakadzi ngatiregerei kugarira maoko, kunzi mudzimai kushandira mhuri chero mubhaibheri chaimo munazvirevo 6:6 simbe yakatukwa)
“To all farmers, new and experienced alike, I encourage the adoption of sustainable practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and irrigation. By implementing these methods, we can increase our yields and contribute to achieving the President’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income nation by 2030, as outlined in the National Development Strategy,Hove said”.
“In a recent interview with Big Boy, the Chairman of Small and Medium Enterprises said that their goal is to encourage all farmers, whether new or experienced to think outside the box and develop new projects that generate more income than maize alone.
“My message to all farmers is, be innovative and try different things. This can be done by engaging in poultry, cattle rearing, piggery, goat farming, horticulture, and beekeeping. Diversifying your farming practices will help you build more sustainable and resilient business which will lead a better quality of life. My dream is to see you prosper and able to buy the equipment and vehicles to run a successful farm, all from the fruits of your hard work, he said”.
The Secretary of Small and Medium Enterprises, Daniel Muhwededzi added that ” l have expressed my wish that the government help the Neta group farming with the necessary equipment to increase their production and succeed in the farming sector. I believe that this support will lead to increased economic activity and improved quality of life in the farming industry”.
Councilor Trevor Mlambo was impressed by the work of the Neta group farmers who are dedicated to ensuring the survival of both people and animals.
” Without their hard work and dedication, many would go hungry, and animals would be at risk of starvation (panoguta munhu mombe haife nenzara inotouya mumunda memunhu kuzotsvaga mashanga). This group’s work is a testament to the power of innovation and community collaboration, he said”.
