Albert Andiseni-Mashingaidze
The Presidential Rural Poultry Scheme (PRPS) in Zimbabwe has made notable strides since its inception in 2022, distributing nearly 2 million chicks to rural households across the country’s 10 provinces.
This initiative aims to provide a new revenue stream for families, particularly in communities that typically lack commercial activities after crop harvests.
The PRPS has made significant strides in its mission, with statistics from the Agricultural Research and Development Agency of Zimbabwe (ARDAS) revealing that as of January 2023, beneficiaries have received a staggering 368,331 birds in 2022 alone.
The momentum has continued into 2023, with an impressive 808,122 birds distributed, and projections for 2024 indicate that an additional 751,408 birds will be allocated to rural households.
This brings the total number of chicks distributed under the scheme to over 2 million, with plans to extend the program to reach three million rural households.
The initiative has introduced a variety of poultry breeds to enhance productivity and adaptability to local conditions.
Among the breeds distributed are the Bosch, Australorp, Kockock, Sasso, Kuroiler, and indigenous chicks, each selected for their resilience and high egg production rates.
This diversity not only caters to the nutritional needs of families but also opens up new avenues for income generation through the sale of eggs and meat.
Residents across the Midlands have expressed their gratitude for the PRPS on Facebook, highlighting the transformative impact it has had on their lives.
A beneficiary named Tendai Moyo shared her experience:
Before receiving the chicks, we struggled to make ends meet.
Now, I can sell eggs at the local market, and my family has a steady source of income.
This program has changed our lives.
The PRPS has also fostered community engagement and collaboration, with local farmers forming cooperatives to share knowledge and resources.
Workshops on poultry management, biosecurity, and marketing strategies have been organized, equipping beneficiaries with the skills needed to maximize their production and profits.
As the program continues to expand, the government remains committed to supporting rural households in their quest for economic independence.
The Ministry of Agriculture has announced plans to increase funding for the PRPS, ensuring that more families can benefit from this life-changing initiative.
“In addition to its economic benefits, the PRPS is contributing to food security in Zimbabwe. With the rising cost of living and increasing food prices, the ability to produce one’s food has become essential for many families.
The chicks provided under the scheme not only supplement diets but also promote healthier eating habits through the consumption of fresh eggs and poultry.“
As Zimbabwe moves forward, the Presidential Rural Poultry Scheme stands as a beacon of hope for rural communities, demonstrating the power of government initiatives to uplift lives and foster sustainable development.
To reach three million households, the PRPS is set to continue its journey of transformation, one chick at a time.
