Matobo incubation centre nears completion

MATOBO Youth Development Initiative Incubation Centre is nearing completion. The project seeks to foster innovation and economic opportunities by not only empowering youth, but also driving economic growth in these communities through innovation. It is at 99 percent completion and is a ground-breaking initiative to promote rural industrialisation and empower local youth.

It aims to unlock rural communities’ potential by providing sustainable livelihood options, transforming the rural economy, and serving as a model for regional replication. Matobo Youth Development Initiative Incubation Centre executive director, Mr Descent Dube, told the Chronicle that construction of the Mushroom Fruiting Chamber at the centre commenced in February, following support from the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association.

“The Incubation Centre itself will have several youth projects that are meant to empower young people and are aimed at providing essential resources and support to young people living in rural areas to help them develop their entrepreneurial skills and as a platform for youth to gather, learn and engage with the community,” said Mr Dube. He noted that the centre will offer a diverse range of services, such as training, mentorship, networking opportunities and career guidance, all designed to support and develop the skills of rural learners.

“The Mushroom Fruiting Chamber aligns with the organisation’s broader vision of developing sustainable interventions that foster resilience in both the organisation and the rural economy. “This development is crucial as rural areas are often overlooked in terms of economic development and young people in the region lack the resources and support required to start a business.

“By providing them with the necessary resources and support, the Incubation Centre and specifically the Mushroom Fruiting Chamber will help bridge the information gap on mushroom cultivation and give practical knowledge in areas of economic development and networking opportunities.” Mr Dube said the Mushroom Chamber will benefit two groups of 10 young entrepreneurs in each cycle.

“The idea is to ensure that every young person who wants to venture into mushroom cultivation is allowed to use the space and grow.
“The concept is to see youths going on to establish more businesses that address food security at the community level while building formal businesses to create employment,” he said.

He indicated that the centre seeks to incubate ideas and ensure they create programmes that empower youth in rural areas to develop essential skills in technology and entrepreneurship. “The greater vision of the centre is to offer workshops, mentorship, and resources to help young people turn their ideas into viable businesses. “We will foster innovation and economic opportunities by not only empowering the youth, but also driving economic growth in these communities through these innovative projects,” said Mr Dube. — @Lo7246Lovelyn