The Rise of Female Agriprenuers

By Newton Mambande

HARARE – AS Zimbabwe celebrates the International Year of the Woman Farmer, women are driving economic empowerment and food security across the country. The United Nations’ theme highlights the pivotal role women play in shaping the nation’s agricultural landscape.

Breaking Barriers

Women in Zimbabwe’s rural areas are shattering glass ceilings by leveraging climate-smart agriculture to boost productivity and income. With access to irrigated land, training, and markets, they are transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture.

Leading Ladies of Agribusiness

• Divine Ndlukula of Zvikomberero Farms: A leading example of women’s empowerment in agriculture, Ndlukula is breaking barriers and achieving remarkable success in the sector.
• Nomaliso Musasiwa: Partnering with her husband in Fresh in the Box, she exemplifies the impact of women in agribusiness.
• Grace, CEO of Discovery Fruit and Vegetable business in Marondera: A shining example of women in leadership, driving growth and innovation.
• Monica Chinamasa: Making waves in agriculture, Chinamasa inspires women across the sector.
• Daphne Bayayi: A role model driving economic growth and food security through agribusiness.
• Getmore Mangundu: A successful entrepreneur empowering women in agriculture.
• Dadirai Mataruse at Zimpala Estates: A leader breaking barriers and achieving success in the agricultural sector.

Key Areas of Empowerment

• Access to Resources: Women are gaining access to land, credit, and technology, enabling them to increase productivity and income.
• Leadership Roles: Women are taking up leadership positions in Irrigation Management Committees, driving decision-making and community development.
• Digital Adoption: Women farmers are embracing digital tools, using mobile apps for agronomic advice, financing, and market access.

The Way Forward

To sustain this momentum, Zimbabwe must prioritise women’s economic empowerment in agriculture. This includes increasing access to resources and technology, promoting women’s leadership and decision-making, investing in climate-resilient agriculture, and enhancing digital literacy and access. By empowering women in agribusiness, Zimbabwe can accelerate economic growth, improve food security, and build a more resilient future.

Newton Mambande is an entrepreneur and researcher who has published scientific research in academic journals. He can be reached at newtonmunod@gmail.com or +263773411103.