GOKWE  VILLAGE Business Units (VBU) are proving to be a game changer in Gokwe North district, with the Agriculture Marketing Authority (AMA) courting some exporters to enable farmers to get maximum returns for their produce.

This development is part of a broader rural industrialisation thrust under the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda, which seeks to empower communities and drive economic growth at grassroots level.

Matikiti Village Business Unit, located under Chief Chireya, is among 99 such facilities recently established in the district.

Though operational for only a month, the VBUs are already making a tangible impact on local livelihoods.

“We now have access to clean water at the turn of a tap, and our irrigation systems have greatly improved. We are looking forward to diversifying our diets and using the income from our first harvest to pay school fees,” farmer, Mrs Sibusisiwe Dube noted.

“As a young man, I have stopped spending time idly in the townships. I now devote my energy to productive work here. This business opportunity brought by the government gives me hope that I can overcome my life challenges,” a young farmer added.

AMA, which is on a tour of the success story of the VBUs in Gokwe North district has roped in some exporters of farm produce, with a view to forge alliances that will see farmers getting the best returns from their produce.

“As with any enterprise, a market must be identified before production begins. Today, we brought representatives from Transvaal Africa to witness the progress on the ground and understand the challenges farmers face. We aim to introduce more buyers and foster meaningful partnerships that enhance the value chain. We are committed to making these VBUs a resounding success,” AMA’s Head of Compliance, Ms Nyengeterai Mangiza said.

“We see immense potential in these farmers. While challenges remain, such as water pumping systems, we are here to support the President’s vision that ‘nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’ and that no place should be left behind. We are exploring the introduction of high-value crops with export potential. Agriculture remains vital, everyone needs food. Plans are underway to ensure VBUs meaningfully improve rural livelihoods,” Transvaal Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Patson Moyo noted.

The VBUs, which form part of broader infrastructure and economic development programmes spearheaded by the Second Republic, are instrumental in advancing the country’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income society