Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
Mashonaland West farmer, Ms Nomhle Maggie Mliswa, stands as a beacon of successful female farmers in Zimbabwe.
Ms Nomhle Maggie Mliswa defines the success story of the Land Reform Programme from the perspective of a black African woman.
Mliswa runs a mixed farming enterprise that includes crops such as maize, small grains, soyabeans, wheat, and potatoes, alongside livestock like cattle, chickens, and goats.
She said on maize she has been averaging eight to nine tonnes per hectare and sunflower 1,5 tonnes per hectare under dry land.
The successful farmer has built more than just a farm; she has cultivated a legacy of resilience, innovation, and community transformation.
She owns Summerhill Farm, a 345-hectare enterprise located in Doma, near Mhangura in Mashonaland West Province, where she stands as one of Zimbabwe’s most remarkable female farmers, driven by a deep passion for agriculture and national development.
Affectionately known as the “lioness of farming,” she states that agriculture is not for the faint-hearted as she has diversified and expanded her enterprise since 2007.
Through years of hands-on work and determination, Ms Mliswa has grown into a formidable force in agriculture, building a thriving operation that once employed over 350 people, nearly two-thirds of whom were women.
Although this figure has since reduced due to the negative effects of climate change, leading to decreased production in recent years, those who had their contracts terminated remain on standby, hired for various works as needed.
Her commitment to empowering women is intentional, as she creates opportunities for them to earn a living while supporting their families.
At her farm, the heart of production is centred on diversification.
This comes after she entered into various smart joint venture partnerships that have since stabilised her and equipped her with state-of-the-art farming machinery.
She and her staff have also gained skills to improve production and use the machinery, which is critical in the diversified farming model.
“We cannot rely on one stream in agriculture. Diversification is key to survival, especially with the changing climate,” she explains.
This approach has not only strengthened her business but has also contributed significantly to Zimbabwe’s food security, positioning her as a vital player in nation-building.
As a beneficiary of the Land Reform Programme, Ms Mliswa has turned her land into a hub of productivity and sustainability. She has embraced modern, smart agricultural practices such as precision farming, water harvesting, and land profiling to mitigate climate risks.
“We have to work with the environment, not against it. That is why we invest in water storage, boreholes, and systems that allow us to adapt,” she adds.
Her farm operates on a zero-waste policy guided by a just-in-time strategy, ensuring efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
Beyond production, Ms Mliswa’s vision extends deeply into community development. Within the farm, she has established a school and clinic, ensuring that workers and their families have access to education and healthcare.
“When you empower a worker, you empower a whole family,” she remarks.
Employees are provided with decent housing, sanitation, and even food rations such as potatoes and chicken, creating a supportive environment that enhances both productivity and well-being.
Her commitment to social responsibility is further reinforced by initiatives such as the Climate Desk, which provides nearby farmers with critical weather information.
“Information is power, especially in farming. If farmers know what to expect, they can plan better and avoid losses.
“She also contributes to local road and bridge repairs in partnership with fellow farmers from the Mhangura Farmers Association and sponsors community activities, reinforcing her role not just as a farmer, but as a community leader.
Yet, behind this success story lies a journey marked by significant challenges. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Ms Mliswa has had to constantly prove her capabilities. Coupled with this, she has navigated life as a single mother and persevered despite living with a spinal injury.
“There were moments when the odds were against me. But giving up was never an option. You learn to adapt, to push forward, and to believe in your vision,” she states.
Despite these hurdles, Ms Mliswa has remained focused, turning obstacles into stepping stones.
Her resilience has become a defining feature of her story, inspiring many, particularly women who aspire to enter agriculture.
“Do not be intimidated. Farming is tough, yes, but it is also rewarding. Women must take up space in this sector and believe in their ability to succeed,” she advises fellow female farmers.
While she keeps her political affiliations private, her work clearly demonstrates her commitment to national development.
She praised President Mnangagwa for supporting farmers: “We are grateful for His Excellency President Mnangagwa’s commitment and unwavering support. His support has made me who I am today. As we edge closer to attaining Vision 2030, I want to encourage my fellow farmers to play our part in food security and sufficiency.
“Through employment creation, food production, and sustainable practices, Ms Mliswa continues to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s growth. Looking ahead, her ambitions remain firmly rooted in sustainability and empowerment. “I want to do more in preserving the environment and raising awareness among women about climate change,” she concludes. “We must think about the future and the land we will leave for the next generation.”
