A developmental arm of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe, the Lutheran Development Service (LDS), has breathed life into the gardening project in Mangezi village under Chief Neshuro by installing state of art equipment and irrigation facilities.
The Hungoidza garden project, currently sustaining 57 households of ward 5, now has a solar-powered service.
The one hectare collaborative scheme achieved a turnaround after LDS secured funding from the Dan Church Aid to procure the requisite equipment.
The project chairperson, Timitia Dziva, who was speaking the official opening of the newly upgraded garden, said the project has transformed since the partnership with LDS took place.
“Hungoidza garden came into existence around 1992 and we used to cover the garden with tree branches. When LDS came with solar-powered irrigation material in 2015, our garden became vibrant. We are now able to generate produces for family consumption and surplus for sale,” said Dziva.
LDS board member, Reverend Tawanda Chovere encouraged Hungoidza garden beneficiaries to remain united and continue working hard so that the garden can keep on flourishing.
Speaking at the same occasion, Dan Church Aid programmes officer, Diego Matsvange said irrigation schemes like the Hungoidza garden were a critical development in face of the unreliable rainfall patterns in low lying areas.
Mwenezi Assistant District Administrator (DA), Martin Musakanda expressed gratitude over the work being done by LDS in improving livelihoods and self-sustenance among people.
The official opening of the garden was attended by various dignitaries and stakeholders among them LDS director Simangaliso Hove, LDS staff, Chief Neshuro, ward councillors, village heads, civil servants and ordinary people.local