Online Reporter
Takudzwa Mangrozah
Herald Reporter
HOMESEEKERS for Economic Development, an affiliate of ZANU PF, has launched a mushroom farming training programme in Glenview North, aiming to empower community members and reduce poverty.
The initiative is part of Homeseekers4ED’s broader efforts to help people acquire affordable residential stands, but also equip them with income-generating skills.
Harare provincial chairperson Patrick Maphosa said the project was meant to help people earn money and become self-reliant.
“Homeseekers4ED launched the programme to empower members to earn an income, enabling them to afford residential stands offered by the organisation. The goal is to equip people with skills to generate funds,” said Maphosa.
He added that the mushroom project will bring change in the community by keeping people active and productive.
“The mushroom farming project will reduce poverty, and drug and substance abuse by engaging idle community members, including youth, in a home-based project that involves the whole family, keeping everyone busy and productive,” said Maphosa.
Maphosa also said the programme supports national goals by promoting hard work and community participation.
“The project aligns with Vision 2030, ensuring no one is left behind. By engaging idle community members, everyone will be busy, contributing to national development, and working towards a common goal, fulfilling the president’s vision,” said Maphosa.
Paidamoyo Grace Majoko said they chose mushroom farming because it is easy to manage and suitable for local conditions.
“Mushroom farming is a suitable business for the community because it has a low requirement, small-scale farming venture that’s well-suited for local conditions,” said Majoko.
She explained that the support will continue even after training, helping farmers to grow and find markets for their produce.
“The organisation will support trainees through WhatsApp groups, providing advice and linking them with potential buyers like Chicken Slice and Foodlovers,” said Majoko.
“They will also help sell the trainees’ products, earning us a small commission of 10 cents per cluster sold
Community members who attended the training said the project has brought hope and reduce social problems in their area.
Tawanda Rusike, a resident of Glenview, said, “The programme is helping reduce poverty, gender-based violence, and substance abuse by providing income opportunities and giving people a sense of purpose.”
Another participant, Scoliwe Chavhunduka, said the project has helped to keep children and families engaged in positive activities.
“The mushroom growing initiative is keeping community members, especially children, busy and away from drugs,” said Chavhunduka.
