In the heart of Bikita District’s Ward 13, a powerful movement led by a 26-year-old visionary farmer, Sheunesu Njeke is taking root. Once burdened by the weight of unyielding land and rising farming costs, Sheunesu has emerged as a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and transformation through Agroecology.

A proud product of Schools and Colleges Permaculture (SCOPE) Zimbabwe, a member of PELUM Zimbabwe, Sheunesu’s passion for farming began in his youth. But it wasn’t until 2022 when he joined the SCOPE Zimbabwe programme that his dreams began to flourish. There, he discovered not only a new approach to agriculture but a return to the ancestral wisdom buried deep within his heritage.

“I have always been passionate about agriculture. Learning about sustainable farming through SCOPE Zimbabwe was like opening a door to a new world, and I realized that there was a better way to farm that could help me and my community in growing food in a sustainable way,” he says.

For Sheunesu, Agroecology is not just about farming methods but a homecoming, a reconnection with the values of sustainability and resilience.

“By following the way our ancestors used to farm, I have become more knowledgeable and I’m able to preserve the environment and promote sustainability,” he adds.

Before this transformation, Sheunesu’s story was one of discouragement. Trapped in a cycle of purchasing expensive synthetic fertilizers and chemicals, his yields were low, his soil depleted, and his spirit tired.

“Before embracing traditional farming methods, I relied heavily on costly synthetic fertilizers. I would buy synthetic fertilizers and chemicals, which led to low yields and soil degradation on my farm. Conventional farming methods resulted in declining soil health, increased costs, and water scarcity. The soil degraded and gave us less output each time, no matter how hard we worked,” he says.

But his breakthrough came through a series of training workshops and farmer exchange programs facilitated by PELUM Zimbabwe. Armed with new tools of natural water harvesting, organic composting, and traditional seed varieties, Sheunesu began to rebuild not only his farm but also his confidence.

“I have attended many programs organised by PELUM Zimbabwe where I have learned about traditional farming interventions such as natural water harvesting techniques, planting traditional grains, using organic manure and so on. I have also learned how to make natural fertilizers for crops using organic matter, as well as compost,” he says.

His once barren plot now bursts with life. Rows of red and yellow maize, nutritious finger millet, and vibrant vegetables like tomatoes and cabbages are grown in abundance. Sheunesu is now cultivating more than just produce, but nourishment for both his family and the land.

“Traditional farming practices have not only improved my health, but have also created a symbiotic relationship between me and the environment. I also get to have peace of mind knowing that I am doing things in the way my ancestors used to, even eating healthy food as they used to,” he says.

Yet Sheunesu’s story does not end at personal success. He has become a teacher, a mentor, and a guiding light to others. He trains fellow youth, shares knowledge at workshops, and ignites curiosity in young farmers eager to follow in his footsteps.

“It’s important to teach others what I’ve learned. I have taught many young farmers about agroecological practices, and together, we can build a resilient community,” he states.

Takunda Makunde (24), Programmes Officer at SCOPE Zimbabwe, is one of many who have witnessed Sheunesu’s impact first hand.

“Thanks to Sheunesu’s commitment to adopting traditional farming techniques and traditional ecological knowledge systems, his once-struggling farm has become a beacon of hope in Bikita. Families in the community are experiencing improved health and nutrition, and the land is slowly being revitalized. With every seed planted, Sheunesu is not just growing crops he is cultivating a brighter future for himself and those around him,” Takunda says.

Percy Mapudzi (53), a community member who knows Sheunesu sees in him not just a farmer, but a change-maker.

“Sheunesu’s journey is truly inspiring. His commitment to organic farming practices not only revitalizes his own farm but also uplifts the entire community. By sharing his knowledge of sustainable methods, he is fostering a culture of organic farming that empowers others to take charge of their agricultural practices. Sheunesu is not just a farmer, he is a leader and a role model for future generations and his efforts are planting seeds of hope and transformation in Bikita,” Percy says.

In every corner of his field, in every seedling he plants, and in every young farmer he mentors, Sheunesu Njeke is proving that the path to a better future is not paved with chemicals or quick fixes, but with tradition, knowledge, and a deep respect for the earth. He is not only growing food but is growing a legacy.