Mazila Family Embarks on Ambitious Integrated Agriculture Enterprise in Umzingwane District

Strategic Insights -

The Mazila family has launched an innovative agriculture project in Umzingwane District, combining cattle, goat, and exotic chicken breeding to tap into under-explored value chains and contribute to the nation's rural industrialization vision. Led by Nontokozo Mabhena, the project has already created employment for 11 locals and is expected to expand, producing over 100 goats annually and selling high-quality exotic chicken breeds to local markets.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Mazila family has invested in a 10-hectare farm in Umzingwane District, which started with 13 cattle in 2023 and has since grown to over 100.
  • The farm now houses over 46 Kalahari and 20 Matabele goats, in addition to sheep and traditional goats.
  • The project has introduced chicken breeding, specializing in exotic breeds, including Cemani and Brahma, with plans to incubate eggs for a third breed.
  • The enterprise has created employment for 11 local youths, who have acquired new agricultural skills relevant to current climatic conditions.
  • The Mazila family has vowed to expand operations and produce over 100 goats per year, employing more people and helping fellow farmers improve their breeds.
  • The project is a direct response to President Mnangagwa's call for diasporans to invest back home, supporting national rural transformation goals and the drive towards rural industrialization.
  • The Mazila Holdings model showcases the potential of diversified and integrated farming in driving local economic growth and promoting youth participation in agriculture.

Statistics:

  • 100+ cattle are currently bred on the farm, up from 13 initial cattle in 2023.
  • Over 66 goats (46 Kalahari and 20 Matabele) are housed in separate pens to ensure controlled breeding, improving conception rates.
  • Meal is prepared from locally available resources, including edible trees mixed with fodder crops for maximum nutrition.
  • 11 local youths are employed at the farm, with plans to increase employment opportunities as the project expands.
  • 2019: The Mazila family acquired the land on which they now operate their agriculture project.

Sources:

  • "Mazila family launches ambitious integrated agriculture project in Umzingwane" by [Author's Name], [Publication Name], [Year]
  • Mabhena, N. ([Quoted in the article, no specified name])
  • Sibanda, S. (Director, Matabeleland South Provincial Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services), [Year]
  • "Mnangagwa appeals to Diaspora to invest back home" by [Author's Name], [Publication Name], [Year]