By Sheunesu Njeke
In the heart of Murambiwa Village in Bikita District, Ivy Mutingwende, a 32-year-old farmer, is rewriting the narrative of rural livelihoods. On a 3-hectare plot, she cultivates Svoboda (Barnyard Millet), a traditional grain that has not only transformed her family’s health but also become a lifeline for their income.
Her farming journey began in 2012, growing finger millet to feed her family and earn extra cash. However, a turning point came in 2021 when her grandmother introduced her to Svoboda. With just 2 kilograms of seed, Ivy took a leap of faith. The harvest was bountiful — and so were the opportunities.
“Since I started growing Svoboda, my family’s health has improved due to its nutritional value. My living standards also changed because I began earning cash by selling the grain,” she shares with pride.
Svoboda’s versatility makes it a farmer’s treasure. It can be brewed into beer, used to make mahewu (a non-alcoholic home-brewed drink), and even serves as poultry feed. Ivy, however, has found a way to integrate it into a fully sustainable agroecological system.
“I feed my chickens Svoboda, and their droppings provide valuable manure for the farm,” she explains.
Her innovative approach and commitment to sustainability are rooted in the agroecological knowledge she gained from working with Schools and Colleges Permaculture (SCOPE) Zimbabwe, a PELUM Zimbabwe member, in 2021.
Her success has not gone unnoticed. Community leaders sing her praises, recognizing the ripple effect of her work.
“I am very happy with what Ivy is doing. She has changed the lives of her family and the community,” says Robert Murambiwa, the 66-year-old village head.
Ward 22 councillor Beauty Mukaro (49) echoes the sentiment.
“I’m amazed by Ivy’s success. She has inspired other young women in the village, showing them that they don’t need to depend on their husbands. Ivy is making money with Svoboda, and she is able to send her children to school.” she says.
Ivy’s journey is a shining example of how small-scale farming, when paired with innovation and sustainable practices, can uplift families and entire communities. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and leadership.
Looking ahead, Ivy dreams of expanding her projects and continuing to inspire others.
“I want more young farmers to see that there’s a future in agroecology and traditional grains,” she says with determination.
Ivy Mutingwende is not just cultivating grains; she’s cultivating hope, prosperity, and a legacy that will endure for generations.
