AN agricultural project in Ntabazinduna, Umguza district, is transforming communities through job creation, food production and support for vulnerable households.
The Thuthukani Luthi Village Business Unit (VBU), a community-driven initiative supported by the government and development partners, has become a model for grassroots empowerment in rural Matabeleland North province.
VBU chairperson Nkululeko Mhlanga said the horticultural venture had created jobs for more than 50 locals and was helping families to become self-reliant.
“This project has empowered us as villagers,” he said during a tour.
“We are growing vegetables, selling them for income and donating some to vulnerable members of the community, such as the elderly and orphans.”
Mhlanga said the project was a result of the devolution programme and government’s rural industrialisation strategy, which aimed to ensure inclusive development across the country.
“The project has encouraged teamwork and self-motivation within the community,” he added.
“We have come together as villagers to make this work.
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“People are more hopeful now because they can see the results of their efforts.”
The Thuthukani Luthi initiative focuses on horticulture, supplying a range of crops to local markets while also improving nutrition for participating households.
Sikhangezile Ncube, a local resident, said the project had brought both social and economic benefits especially to women.
“Many women now have their own source of income, which has helped to reduce tensions in homes,” she said.
“We are seeing fewer cases of domestic violence and people are working together more.”
Ncube also noted that having a steady supply of food and income had improved the wellbeing of many families.
“People are thinking ahead now. There’s a sense that we can build something better for our children,” she said.
Although still expanding, the project has already made a visible difference in the community.
Plans are underway to scale up production and support more households.
Initiatives like Thuthukani Luthi are part of a broader effort to equip rural communities with practical tools for development.
For many in Ntabazinduna, the project has brought not just food and income, but renewed confidence in locally-led solutions.
