By Priscilla Magazini
CHIMANIMANI – Minister of State for Devolution and Provincial Affairs, Misheck Mugadza, has praised PORETO Trust for empowering women and youths through agroecology and organic farming, saying the initiative is vital in strengthening drought mitigation strategies.
Speaking at an event organised by PORETO Trust this week, Mugadza said the organisation’s work was complementing government efforts to build resilient communities.
“PORETO’s efforts to educate farmers on diversifying crops and embracing cultural practices will significantly contribute to building climate resilience,” he said.
He added that government’s programme of distributing 10kg of maize meal to households would be reinforced by PORETO’s sustainable farming initiatives, ensuring communities are better equipped to cope with climate change.
The event also highlighted success stories from rural women who have benefitted from PORETO’s training.
Patience Sithole (40) from Jinga Village said she now earns a living through seed production.
“I found a sustainable way to make a living through selling seeds,” she said.
Another participant, Veronica Dube from Chipira Village, explained how she is making use of natural resources.
“I am utilizing the baobab trees to create something useful, like mats, without incurring any costs,” she said.
Meanwhile, Patricia Mazungunye from Ward 3 said organic farming had improved soil health and sustainability in her community.
“PORETO has educated us to use organic farming practices. Using natural materials instead of artificial fertilizers has numerous benefits for the environment, soil health, and overall sustainability,” she said.
The event marked a major milestone in PORETO Trust’s drive to promote agroecology and empower rural communities, particularly women and young people.