Ruwa, Zimbabwe – The Youth and Women in Farming for Economic Development programme on Friday held what organisers described as its first-ever national boot camp, bringing together youths, women and key agricultural stakeholders in Ruwa to promote innovation-driven farming aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
Speaking at the event, Genesis Director Mr Pastor Matsenengwa said the boot camp marked a historic milestone for the country, noting that it was the first initiative of its kind focused on practical agricultural empowerment for youths and women. He thanked stakeholders and participants for ensuring the success of the programme.
The head of Youth and Women in Farming for Economic Development and Agric 4 She, Cde Nicros Kajengo, who hails from Rushinga, said the initiative was anchored on reviving agriculture as a pathway to economic transformation. He acknowledged Pastor Matsenengwa as a key stakeholder and also paid tribute to Cde Makuvatsine for supporting the programme.
Cde Kajengo welcomed Government support to the initiative, including the provision of agricultural drones, which he said would improve productivity and modernise farming practices. He added that women empowerment remained central to national development and said President Emmerson Mnangagwa was implementing policies consistent with the Constitution.
“Attaining upper middle-income status by 2030 will be determined by our activities and measurable goals, particularly in agriculture,” Cde Kajengo said.
Addressing the gathering, Leonard Munamati, a Director in the Ministry of Lands, Fisheries and Agriculture, described the affiliate as one of the most organised structures working with communities. He said youths and women were the “think tanks” of ZANU-PF and urged them to drive innovation in order to realise Vision 2030.
“We encourage the youths to make the President’s Vision 2030 a reality through innovation and productivity,” Munamati said.
Several stakeholders attended the boot camp, including Genesis and SeedCo, highlighting growing private-sector and institutional support for youth- and women-led agricultural development initiatives.
