By Virginia Njovo
Rural communities across Masvingo Province are experiencing a significant transformation in agricultural practices and livelihoods through the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF-7) Dryland Sustainable Landscapes Impact Program (DSL-IP).
Implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe, the programme is driving value addition, climate-resilient farming, and sustainable forest management throughout the region.
In districts like Zaka, smallholder farmers are increasingly adopting mechanized farming methods that enhance both productivity and climate resilience.
The strategic deployment of tractors, planters, and shellers has not only reduced labor intensity but also improved crop yields. This equipment is conveniently located near raw material sources to facilitate value addition for key crops including maize, soybeans, and small grains.
GEF-7 Project Coordinator Precious Marwadza highlighted the program’s focus on collective farmer empowerment in an interview with TellZim News.
“We have nearly 600 farmer groups across the Save and Runde sub-catchments, engaging in a range of activities from farming to value addition. Some are producing honey, wine, lotion, wax just to name a few,” said Marwadza.
Programme beneficiaries shared how the initiative has revolutionized their economic circumstances.
One member of a local company, Marula Zimbabwe, Wvelyn Masvimbo described the programme’s role in launching their business venture.
“Our company, Marula Zimbabwe, is based in Chivi Central Ward 16. We produce items such as shomwe, wine, marula butter, and resurrection tea, which we now sell on the market. Thanks to this, we can afford to send our children to tertiary education. We feel empowered our dignity as women has been restored,” she said.
Anna Rungwe from Shashe Agro Ecology emphasized the health advantages derived from the programme.
“We have gained confidence in our indigenous African crops, especially small grains. We practice organic farming without pesticides or treated seeds we are going natural. This promotes healthy eating and helps redefine the value of our traditional crops,” said Rungwe.
With sustained support from GEF-7 and its partners, Masvingo’s rural communities are emerging as exemplars of sustainable development. The integration of value addition, renewable energy, and climate-smart agricultural practices is not only enhancing livelihoods but also contributing to the restoration of degraded landscapes across the province.
