The recent training workshop organized by ENABLE TAAT (Empowering Novel Agribusiness-Led Employment for African Youth within the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation) in TSF (Tropical South and West Africa) countries has marked a significant milestone in fostering youth entrepreneurship within the agricultural sector.
A total of 249 enthusiastic young individuals, comprising 145 females and 104 males, were empowered through the training sessions, spanning over 12 days. The program took place in Norton Town, Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe, followed by an additional session in Hauna Village, Mutasa District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. Throughout the training, representatives from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Production provided invaluable support and guidance.
Under the collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development in Zimbabwe, the program extended its reach to include youth beneficiaries of the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme in Hauna, Mutasa District. This collaboration exemplifies a concerted effort to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem within the agricultural domain.
Throughout these training sessions, facilitated by Mr Osun of ENABLE TAAT, a training director and representatives from the fisheries and aquaculture production department attended. Advocacy for an extension to the Hauna training gained momentum during sessions at Norton after initially being declined due to prior plans. Notably, the first session included staff from the fishery department and district level at Norton, prompted by the federal government’s distribution of 21,000 fingerlings to Hauna’s youth. Extension officers from Hauna and Makanye districts also contributed to the training and agreed to replicate it at their respective locations. Additionally, a youth women group cluster, established by Genderlinks in Zimbabwe, collaborated closely with ENABLE TAAT to address training deficiencies, emphasizing the need for holistic improvement beyond technical skills.
Recognizing the importance of access to financial resources for budding entrepreneurs, ENABLE TAAT facilitated interactions with various financial institutions, including AFC Bank, Women Bank, NMB Bank, and Empower Bank. Representatives from these institutions engaged directly with the participants, elucidating the loan facilities tailored for young entrepreneurs.
The training program culminated on a high note, with participants receiving certificates of completion from the Department of Fisheries. Moreover, summarized training manuals were distributed to all participants, serving as invaluable resources for their future endeavors in agribusiness. With newfound skills, knowledge, and networks, these empowered youth entrepreneurs are poised to spearhead sustainable and profitable agribusiness ventures, thereby contributing to the socioeconomic development of their communities and beyond.
