Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
BULAWAYO youths yesterday received agricultural machinery and implements under the Presidential Support Programme, a move set to boost food production and incomes.
The machinery includes essential equipment such as tractors, mounted harrows, boom sprayers, planters, and a trailer meant to enhance productivity and boost food security efforts in the province.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs in Bulawayo, Cde Judith Ncube, led the handover ceremony at Mhlahlandlela Government complex.
In her remarks she said provision of the farming resources underscores the Government’s commitment to empowering young farmers and revitalising the agricultural sector.
“By equipping the youths with the necessary tools and equipment, the initiative seeks to create a conducive environment for sustainable farming practices and economic growth,” said Minister Ncube.
“Supporting our youth in agriculture is crucial for the prosperity of our nation. By investing in their potential and providing them with the means to succeed, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant and sustainable agricultural industry.”
She said the equipment was distributed in line with the Government’s inclusive empowerment initiative, which seeks to increase youth participation in agriculture and contribute towards national economic growth.
Zanu-PF Bulawayo Provincial Youth League chairperson, Cde Freedom Murechu, said the donation has come at the right time as they are preparing for the 2025-2026 farming season.
“With access to modern machinery, we are confident that we can significantly increase our agricultural output and contribute to the overall food security in our province,” he said.
Cde Murechu said the consignment demonstrates Government’s tangible steps towards harnessing youth potential and fostering innovation in farming.
“We’re grateful for this opportunity and pledge to work diligently to make the most out of these resources. By working together and sharing knowledge, we can harness the full potential of this initiative and make a lasting impact on agriculture in Bulawayo province,” he said.
“Through strategic interventions and targeted support, the initiative aims to empower young farmers and facilitate sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.”
Another youth, Cde Munashe Mtutsa, said they were grateful to President Mnangagwa for ensuring that the youth are empowered.
“The President is walking the talk, and we are very grateful for this donation. We’re going to make use of the equipment so that we contribute to national development,” he said.
“The farming season is upon us and we are happy that we have been equipped and mechanised to boost production. We are really excited.”
President Mnangagwa has said Government is committed to empowering the youths to enable them to play a key role in production and transforming the economy.
During the National Youth Day celebrations in February, President Mnangagwa reported that among other empowerment initiatives, the Government has made several appointments of young people to leadership and decision-making roles in ministries, departments and other key institutions.
“As the vanguard of the country, he said the youths must take the initiative and develop synergies as well as partnerships while building a common united front to advance the aims and objectives of the people’s revolution and development thrust.
To achieve these objectives, the ruling party Zanu-PF has implemented a range of targeted initiatives aimed at empowering young people and integrating them into the party’s framework.
