Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
YOUTHS from Marondera district have thanked the South Korea Government for funding empowerment projects that have transformed their livelihoods.
In 2023, about 17 youths from the district received funding from South Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to start income-generating projects mainly in the agriculture sector.
Dubbed Green Jobs for Rural Youth Employment, the initiative saw each beneficiary receiving a substantial amount of cash to start the projects.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) is the implementing partner for the programme. Beneficiaries were chosen based on the business proposal they had presented to apply for the funds.
South Korea Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Jae Kyung Park, on Thursday visited some of the projects to have an appreciation of progress as well as their impact on beneficiaries and communities.
“I am impressed by how the projects are, some of you are into horticulture, others are into cattle production, while others are into pig production,” he said.
“To the young people. I know it is not easy, but you will always benefit from the work that you are doing. The efforts that you are putting in now will bring benefits. Continue working hard, step by step.”
A youth from ward 17, Luckson Madzivanzira, who is into cattle fattening and breeding, said the assistance has already transformed his livelihood.
“I partnered with my colleague here on this project. After receiving some cash in 2023, we bought four cattle for fattening, and we sold them,” he said.
“From the proceeds, we bought more cattle and to date, we have 27 cattle, and we are planning to increase our herd.
“To be honest, the project is bearing fruits. We are sending our children to better schools, we are eating good food and we no longer spend time loitering. Thank you South Korea, FAO and all those who are putting their efforts to empower youths.”
