Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube in Victoria Falls
17-YEAR-OLD Andrew Shingirirai Muvengwa from Victoria Falls, is revolutionising perceptions of farming and tourism after establishing a thriving business, which has given him and his family extra income.
Beginning his agricultural journey at the young age of eight, Andrew’s story is one of determination, innovation and community upliftment.
What started as a modest backyard farm with a few chickens and a small vegetable garden has blossomed into a successful business. This thriving venture not only provides for Andrew but also attracts tourists eager to experience the richness of Zimbabwe’s agriculture firsthand.
Born on February 24, 2007, Andrew began farming while doing Grade Two at Chamabondo Primary School and wrote his Ordinary Level examinations this year (2024) at Grace Missions High School.
What started as a childhood hobby in vegetable production quickly blossomed into a passion that now drives his entrepreneurial endeavours.
By the time Andrew got to high school he had developed expertise in various areas of farming, including poultry, livestock and crop farming.
He probably goes down in history books as one of the youngest farmers in the country with interests in animal husbandry and horticulture.
“I’m doing poultry farming having ducks, pigeons, turkeys, rabbits, pigs and 15 different breeds of chickens. Apart from these projects, I have some incubators, which I bought through poultry farming. I am doing these projects in Victoria Falls’ Mkhosana suburb 5225 and in Monde,” he said.
What makes Andrew’s farming story unique is that he literally educated himself as he used proceeds from his farming project to pay his school fees and also mentors more than 20 young farmers.
He grows vegetables and raises ducks, pigeons, turkeys, rabbits, pigs and 15 different breeds of chickens.
In total, Andrew has 25 chickens per each breed and has showcased these and other livestock breeds at the Matabeleland North Agricultural Show and Victoria Falls Agricultural Show.
One of his pigs was judged to be the biggest breed at this year’s Victoria Falls Agricultural Show.
At some point, Andrew’s flock of chickens had grown to 50 per breed before he sold some of them to buy two incubators from where he does chicken breeding.
The two incubators are stationed at his parents’ place of residence in Mkhosana where he started the project while the pigs and some chickens are in Monde outside the city.
“I have managed to buy some assets including incubators and I managed to pay my school fees out of farming. I would fund my own education by paying fees and extra lessons for some years, not because my parents could not afford but because the project gave me money. I do the projects on my own but I try by all means to uplift young people, especially my friends whom we did agriculture together in primary school. Some of them are Desire Mukunga, Prosper Chindora, Praise Musiiwa, Simbarashe Sibanda and Pauline Musiiwa.
“I would love to encourage farmers in Zimbabwe and other countries to use modern farming methods and involve youth. Farming has high turnover if done properly, especially with research and value addition,” he said.
His project is a model of sustainable agriculture, where visitors can learn about various farming techniques, the different breeds of livestock and the importance of research and innovation in modern farming.
The unique combination of farming and tourism that Andrew offers has become increasingly popular with both locals and international visitors.
Tourists visiting Zimbabwe for its world-famous attractions, like the majestic Victoria Falls, now have the opportunity to engage with the country’s agricultural heritage by visiting Andrew’s project.
He sometimes takes some to his project for visitors to get hands-on experience in poultry farming, feed the animals and even collect fresh eggs.
Andrew has embraced social media and opened a WhatsApp channel to promote his farm as a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about sustainable farming and local agriculture.
His is not just about showcasing animals, it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of youth-led agricultural initiatives.
Although it is a backyard project, the mentorship he gives to 22 youngsters makes it a significant contributor to the country’s quest for sustainable livelihoods as enunciated in the National Development Strategy 1.
He teaches the 22 youths the ins and outs of farming while encouraging them to start their own projects and sponsors them to agricultural shows for them to learn more.
Andrew sometimes gives his mentees chickens to start their own projects.
As a mentor and farmer, Andrew is paving the way for a future where agriculture is not just seen as a traditional pursuit, but as a modern, viable career path—especially for Zimbabwe’s youth.
As he continues to grow his business and mentor the next generation of farmers, Andrew’s farm is not just a place for animals and crops—it’s a place for tourists to discover the heart of Zimbabwe’s agricultural potential and be inspired by the incredible possibilities that lie within the world of farming led by youths.
Online Reporter