In a vibrant display of innovation and community spirit, SOS Children’s Villages in Zimbabwe, through its Family Strengthening Programme (FSP) Hwedza, hosted a successful Horticulture Field Day and Marketing Fair at Fels Estate Primary School in Hwedza District. The event marked a significant milestone in reshaping the horticultural landscape and promoting sustainable livelihoods in the region.
The fair brought together local farmers, agro-producers, community members, and development stakeholders for a day of learning, showcasing, and forging new market connections. With a strong focus on empowering rural families through practical skills and economic opportunities, the event created space for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and celebration of community-led progress.
Empowering Farmers Through Innovation
Exhibitions of fresh vegetables, fruits, and a variety of value-added products filled the fair with colour and energy. Local farmers proudly presented their work, reflecting the transformative impact of training and technical support received through the FSP.
“This is the first time I have had the opportunity to present my produce like this,” said one of the participants. “I have learnt how to improve the quality of my tomatoes and how to market them better. Now, buyers are interested in my produce, and that gives me hope for the future.”
Workshops and live demonstrations led by agricultural experts covered key topics such as organic pest control, drip irrigation, composting, and post-harvest handling. Farmers left better informed and more confident in their ability to boost productivity sustainably.
Strengthening Market Linkages
One of the fair’s highlights was its role in creating real-time market linkages. Traders and agro-processors engaged directly with farmers, discussing quality standards, pricing, and supply timelines.
“This event has opened my eyes,” said a young farmer from the local youth cluster. “We always grow crops, but we never knew how to access reliable buyers. Now I have the contacts and understanding I need to start supplying in bulk.”
By improving access to markets, the initiative directly supports income generation, food security, and community resilience.
Honourable Ndudzo Applauds the Initiative
The event was graced by Hon. Itayi Ndudzo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, whose presence added significance to the occasion and underscored the importance of agriculture-led development.
“This is the development we must support,” said Honourable Ndudzo. “What I have witnessed today proves that with the right training, resources, and commitment, communities can become productive and self-sustaining. I commend SOS Children’s Villages in Zimbabwe for investing in people and giving them the power to transform their lives.”
Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Future
The Horticulture Field Day and Marketing Fair is part of SOS Children’s Villages’ broader commitment to strengthening families and empowering communities. By promoting environmentally sound farming practices, building market awareness, and nurturing community leadership, the Family Strengthening Programme in Hwedza is helping rural households move from vulnerability to resilience.
As the event came to a close, the message was clear: with the right support and a united community, sustainable transformation is not just possible and it’s already taking root in Hwedza.