By Violet Mashonga
At the Waterfront Resort in Kariba, the room erupted in cheers as young farmers stepped forward to receive their awards—many clutching certificates with hands still calloused from the fields.
For three days, the resort was transformed into a hub of hope, ambition and practical strategy as farmers, youth leaders and policymakers gathered for the inaugural Boys Dzamdara Farmers Awards and strategic planning workshop.
Under the theme “Farming is Business – Leaving No One Behind,” the event celebrated not only agricultural excellence but also the determination of young Zimbabweans to redefine farming as a profession of pride and prosperity.
For many attendees, this gathering was more than a ceremony—it was a rare moment to be seen, heard and supported.
“Farming is our future”
In his keynote address, Nicros Kajengo, National Youth Programme Coordinator, reminded participants of agriculture’s central role in the country’s economy—even in the face of climate challenges, rising input costs and global instability.
“Farming is not a fallback plan. It is a profession,” Kajengo said passionately. “If we say no one must be left behind, then we must back our youth with resources, not just speeches.”
True to that promise, every award winner will receive agricultural inputs—a gesture that drew applause, especially from the young farmers in attendance who said such support gives them a chance to scale up their efforts.
A Call for Seriousness and Self-Belief
Tapiwa Chitate, National Chairman of Farmers 4ED, challenged young people to be relentless in seeking assistance and partnerships.
“Knock on every door until the right one opens,” he urged. “Our journey from NDS1 to NDS2 is proof that we are moving forward under President Mnangagwa’s vision for an upper-middle-income Zimbabwe.”
Across the room, nods of agreement came from youths who said they often struggle to secure inputs or access training despite their passion for farming.
Championing Innovation Through Joint Ventures
Agronomist Beauty Magiya brought a practical lens to the discussions, highlighting the power of Joint Ventures (JV) and Village Business Units (VBU) in unlocking productivity. She urged young agronomists to think beyond traditional farming models and embrace partnerships that can bring expertise, capital and technology to the rural landscape.
Her message resurfaced repeatedly throughout the workshop, echoed by Michael Mutosvori, Director of Agriculture for Boys Dzamdara, who emphasised that such collaborative systems are critical to sustainable growth.
Honouring Dedication and Leadership
Behind the scenes, the awards were meticulously organised by Felicity Mupagamuri, Organising Secretary, and Edward Maenda, Secretary-General—both applauded for their commitment to recognising farmers who often labour in silence.
Representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Simbarashe Kanzou reaffirmed government’s open-door policy and encouraged farmers to “use the ministry’s services, not just admire them from afar.”
Celebrating the Champions of the Soil
The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding contributions across multiple categories—from seasoned farmers to the emerging talents shaping the future of agriculture.
Among the recipients was Mr Gwadikira Tawanda, representing the Provincial Agric Youth Desk, whose recognition symbolised the growing influence of youth voices in agriculture.
In the end, the smiles, handshakes and celebratory songs told a story far bigger than the event itself. They spoke of a renewed belief in farming as a business, a pathway to employment, and a foundation for Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 ambitions.
A New Chapter for Youth and Agriculture
As the sun set over Lake Kariba on the final day, participants left with more than awards—they carried a sense of purpose.
The Boys Dzamdara Farmers Awards have not only honoured excellence but also revitalised a national conversation about the future of farming.
The message was clear:
Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation will be driven by its youth—and no one should be left behind.
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