Across Zimbabwe, hope is sprouting from the soil. Young people are digging deep into the land, their heritage, and their future. With each seed sown and each new skill learned, they’re reclaiming farming as a path to dignity, climate resilience, and community transformation. Through training workshops in agroecology, they are becoming stewards of sustainable farming, and becoming leaders of a greener tomorrow.

One such changemaker is Learnmore Chaonwa (22) from Chimanimani District. Working closely with Towards Sustainable Use of Resources Organisation (TSURO) Trust, a PELUM Zimbabwe member, Learnmore has become an advocate for a more intentional and eco-friendly way of farming. His perspective shifted dramatically after participating in a youth training on Integrated Land Use Design (ILUD) and another on Holistic Land and Livestock Management (HLLM), facilitated by PELUM Zimbabwe.

“In our community, we used to plant haphazardly. We had no plan and no knowledge of how to differentiate between the different plant zones. We misplaced crops and animals, leading to numerous management difficulties at our homestead and in our community. Productivity suffered a lot, and we wasted resources and effort, making food security hard to achieve,” narrates Learnmore.

The training opened his eyes to a system of farming that values balance — between plants, animals, and the land itself. With guidance from PELUM Zimbabwe member, Schools and Colleges Permaculture (SCOPE) Zimbabwe, Learnmore and a group of 12 youths learned to map out their gardens using agroecological zoning principles.

“This (ILUD) approach will help us in effectively practicing agroecology, maximize space, reduce competition among plants, and improve soil health. By doing so, we can achieve food security through maximum and effective land utilisation. Organizing our gardens and landscapes according to these zones will enhance productivity and resource efficiency, bringing numerous benefits to the community,” he explains.

For Virginia Ndlovu (18), a young farmer from Matobo District working with Health Excellence, the experience was equally transformative.

“Participating in the ILUD training has been a game changer for me. I have gained valuable insights into managing our natural resources more effectively, especially in water conservation and using organic fertilizers. I feel empowered to share this knowledge with my community, and I’m excited to see the positive impact we can make together,” says Virginia.

Beyond the gardens and crop zones, Learnmore’s outlook on livestock management also evolved. From the HLLM training, he discovered the crucial link between soil health, plant life, and animal wellbeing.

“Before being trained on HLLM, I used to think traditional herding methods were effective, but I now understand that these methods are the most effective in improving livestock health and productivity,” he said.

What struck him most was the idea that livestock, often seen as harmful to the land, can actually become agents of regeneration when managed correctly.

“It was eye-opening to realize that grazing cattle can rejuvenate grassland. When grass is not grazed, it dies, but when it is, it can regenerate beautifully,” he explained.

Motivated by this knowledge, Learnmore has already begun implementing agroecological zones at his homestead, a move he believes will improve food security and restore ecological balance.

Facilitators, too, are witnessing the energy and commitment of this new generation of eco-farmers. Percy Mapudzi (53), from Shurugwi Ward 12 and a SCOPE Zimbabwe facilitator, says he was inspired by the youth’s curiosity and drive.

“The ILUD training truly excited the participants as they learned innovative techniques for managing agroecological zones, including effective water management and the use of organic fertilizers. Their enthusiasm for these sustainable practices will empower them to transform their farming methods and bring lasting benefits to their communities,” he says.

Through knowledge, collaboration, and passion, young farmers like Learnmore and Virginia are not just growing food but they are cultivating resilience, restoring ecosystems, and laying the foundation for a future where agriculture heals rather than harms.

They are proof that when youth lead, the land can thrive, and so can the communities that depend on it.