By A Correspondent
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s MenBelievED organization distributed seedlings to farmers in Masvingo North Constituency over the weekend, raising questions about the adequacy of the support provided.
Farmers in the area have expressed concerns that the number of seedlings given is insufficient for meaningful agricultural growth.
In an official statement, MenBelievED provided updates on their activities in the region…
MenBelievED Masvingo North Chapter Updates
Sunday, February 9, 2025
The MenBelievED team completed Phase 3 of its activities in Ward 8, Masvingo North Constituency on February 7. The initiative, which featured a seedling distribution and planting event, attracted a crowd of key figures, including Masvingo North legislator Hon. Brian Mudhumi, local Ward Councillor Gule, and traditional leaders.
The event also saw the participation of war veterans, government officials, and a representative from the office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira. Students from Mutendi High and Bikita Fashu Secondary Schools, along with local youth and their parents, were also involved in the community-based initiative.
The seedlings distributed included cabbage, tomato, green pepper, sweet potato, squash, and okra. These crops were intended to enhance the productivity of nutritional gardens in Ward 8, contributing to food security and economic empowerment through the sale of surplus produce.
“This initiative is aimed not only at improving household food security but also at offering economic opportunities for local farmers,” MenBelievED stated. “By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, the project can provide long-term benefits to the community.”
In addition to its agricultural focus, the project seeks to address pressing social issues, particularly the rising abuse of drugs and substances among youth. By involving young people in productive farming activities, the program offers a constructive alternative to idleness, contributing to a healthier, more engaged community.
The event highlighted the collective effort from various sectors of the community, underscoring a shared commitment to sustainable development and social welfare in Masvingo North. MenBelievED’s initiative sets a precedent for similar projects across the country, aligning with the broader goals of community development under President Mnangagwa’s leadership.
However, despite the optimism surrounding the project, local farmers have voiced concerns about the scale of the seedling distribution, questioning whether it is enough to make a significant impact on local agricultural productivity.