Umguza Rural District Council LED

Umguza Rural District Council is implementing the Promoting Gender Inclusive Local Economic Development in Zimbabwe programme under the Horticulture value chain.

Introduction

Umguza Rural District Council is implementing the Promoting Gender Inclusive Local Economic Development in Zimbabwe programme under the Horticulture value chain. The project is promote local economic development through horticulture. The produce including peas, sweet chillies, among other export market horticultural products is intended for both local and export market. The programme also strengthens the local authority’s LED planning and procurement practices to promote women-owned enterprises. Umguza RDC is a Centre of Excellence for gender mainstreaming and the hub local authority for all rural local authorities in Matabeleland North and South. The local authority has also partnered with Adventist Development Relief Agency (ADRA) who have expertise in the area for market linkages and technical expertise.

Fact file

Country:

Zimbabwe

Value Chain:

Waste management

Joined LED Programme:

2022

Summit:

2024

Key Achievements

The council has allocated 5% of its budget to Local Economic Development activities.

Market places designed and 32% of stands allocated to women.

The council has a costed LED plan in place.

Awards

Horticulture

Stories of change

Zimbabwe: Empowering women and youth in Umguza
In the Matabeleland North region of Zimbabwe, the Umguza Rural District Council has been transforming lives through its inclusive local economic development initiatives.
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Zimbabwe: Khayelihle's journey to empower local farmers
In the heart of Umguza Rural District Council, a remarkable transformation has taken place, thanks to the unwavering dedication and marketing expertise of 33-year-old Khayelihle Moyo.
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Testimonials

"The program made me an entrepreneur and currently l am supporting my husband financially to pay for household expenses and the other community members are now appreciating the work l am doing now. ”

Samukelisiwe Ncube, Umguza RDC

”The program increased my networking skills because l can now negotiate for my products. I am now independent and l can provide food and clothes for the family.”

Sihle Dube, Umguza RDC

"I saw an opportunity to take our produce beyond the local markets and we tapped into the demand from larger retailers and restaurants. l worked tirelessly to grow the freshest produce, and my hard work paid off."

Khayelihle Moyo, Umguza RDC

Umguza Rural District Council LED