Tambudzai Zuze (55) is a passionate smallholder farmer from Nemutenzi Village in Chimanimani district under Chief Mutambara. Tambudzai works with Participatory Organic Research and Extension Training Organisation (PORETO), a PELUM Zimbabwe member. Since joining PORETO, Tambudzai has embraced positive environmental work, shifting her community’s view on farming through ecologically sound interventions like agroecology.

Tambudzai says she began by transforming her farming, then balanced her farming with environmentally sustainable and beneficial practices which she ended up sharing with her community members who in turn began practicing these as well.

“Before I joined PORETO I was one of the farmers who cared less about how human activity affected the environment. I used hybrid seeds and synthetic fertilizers but after joining PORETO I now fully practice agroecology, grow traditional seed varieties and my way of farming has totally transformed. I no longer use hybrid seeds, or farming methods that are harmful to the environment,” she says.

Tambudzai’s commitment to farming goes beyond merely growing traditional grains, she is a passionate farmer who is promoting sustainable practices that benefit her community by sharing knowledge on the benefits of growing traditional grains.

“With the knowledge and skills I have gained from PORETO, I am now able to enhance my farming methods and improve my yields. I am also sharing knowledge and seeds with other farmers in my community which is not only ensuring food security for my family but also preserving the traditional practices that define our true identity as a community,” she says.

Tambudzai, a beneficiary of water harvesting and Permaculture Design Course (PDC) trainings at PORETO says the trainings have helped strengthen knowledge and fostered development at homestead and community level.

“At PORETO, we are also embracing effective water harvesting and PDC techniques that we are trained which are transforming our crop fields. These methods maximize water use and significantly improve soil health through promoting localised utilisation of ecologically friendly resources. The knowledge farmers get from these trainings enhances our farming landscape and ensures we create a sustainable future for our community,” she says.

Chitenderano Mutyadzanga (45) the Project Officer at PORETO, says farmers like Tambudzai are uplifting their communities through committing to sustainable ecological governance.

“Tambudzai is a remarkable example of what can be achieved through dedication and a commitment to sustainable practices. Her transition from conventional farming methods to traditional farming reflects her strong desire to revitalize her community’s heritage. Tambudzai not only enhances her own farming but also uplifts her fellow farmers, showing that sustainable practices can lead to a more resilient and food secure future for her community,” he shares.

Virginia Karisawu (50) the Community Outreach Officer working with PORETO says communities are encouraging each other to promote environmental protection and adopt ecologically beneficial practices.

“Tambudzai Zuze is one of many community members who have become role models in their villages. Beyond their agroecological successes, these individuals actively engage with fellow community members, sharing their newfound knowledge and experiences. This brings people together and encourages them to adopt sustainable practices.” she says.