Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
FARMERS in Montrose 4A area under Insiza District, Matabeleland South Province, have launched an initiative to mobilise funds for purchasing farming implements under their Internal Savings and Lending Scheme (ISALS) group to enhance productivity.
The group, named “Stars of Tomorrow,” comprises 27 members, 18 women and eight men. Established in 2023, they have since acquired essential farming tools such as ox-drawn ploughs, harrows, and cultivators.
ISALS chairperson Mr Nhlanhla Sibanda said the idea was inspired by the Green Climate Fund programme. Initially, members contributed US$10 each per month, gradually accumulating enough funds to purchase essential equipment.
“Our group was formed as part of the Green Climate Fund programme, which encourages community-based resilience initiatives. We noticed that some members lacked the necessary farming tools, which hindered productivity,” he said.
Mr Sibanda said by pooling resources, they managed to acquire wheelbarrows and maize seeds in 2023.
“In 2024, we increased our contributions and raised US$3 933, enabling us to purchase ploughs, cultivators, and harrows. Our ultimate goal is to expand further and secure additional equipment to boost our agricultural activities,” he said.
Mr Sibanda said the financial literacy training provided under ISALS has been instrumental in equipping members with essential skills for managing their savings and investments. The group envisions raising funds to establish larger agricultural ventures.
Ms Memory Mpofu, a member of the group, said collective saving has promoted motivation and teamwork among farmers.
“This co-operative approach has kept us focused and disciplined. Working alone can be demotivating, but as a group, we support and learn from each other. Our unity ensures no one is left behind, and we progress at the same pace,” she said.
The ISALS project was initiated under the Building Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Livelihoods in Southern Zimbabwe Green Climate Fund programme. Implemented by Government with technical and management support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the Green Climate Fund, the initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience in agricultural communities by providing resources, training, and support to mitigate climate change effects.
The programme, which began in June 2020 and runs until June 2027, is being implemented in 14 districts across three provinces. In Matabeleland South, it covers Umzingwane, Mangwe, Insiza, Matobo, Gwanda, and Beitbridge.
ISALS, commonly known as village savings and lending schemes, have empowered rural communities, particularly women, by providing financial security and accessibility. These schemes function as informal community banks, allowing members to pool savings and access low-interest loans for emergencies and income-generating projects.
Insiza Ward 19 Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (Ardas) supervisor, Ms Christabert Moyo, commended the Stars of Tomorrow group for taking ownership of their empowerment journey beyond external support.
“This group has demonstrated self-reliance by successfully managing the ISALS project. Their investment in farming implements, alongside ventures such as beekeeping and small grain production, showcases their commitment to enhancing food and nutrition security at the community and national levels,” she said.
@DubeMatutu
