Deep Plough Cooperative leads agriculture innovation in Pumula North with fupport from Hauling Quarry
A once-neglected dumpsite in Bulawayo’s Pumula North is now being reborn as an agricultural innovation centre that intends to train young people in sustainable farming and food value addition.
The initiative is being driven by the Deep Plough Agriculture Cooperative Society Limited, a youth-led organisation that is spearheading the Deep Plough Mushroom and Drying Project, a forward-looking community enterprise focused on oyster mushroom production, solar-powered drying, and cooperative business management.
The project aims to transform waste ground into a productive space for agricultural learning, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment. Over 200 young people from Ward 17 and surrounding communities will now gain practical skills in mushroom cultivation, solar drying technologies, and cooperative management.
To support this transformation, Hauling Quarry Mine partnered with the cooperative by providing machinery and manpower to clear and rehabilitate the former dump site. This crucial step made it possible for Deep Plough to prepare the land for construction of mushroom grow cabins and solar dryers laying the foundation for an ambitious youth-led agricultural enterprise.
“Hauling Quarry’s support came at the right time,” said Muziwanele Ncube, Chairperson of Deep Plough Agriculture Cooperative. “Their help in clearing and leveling the site has allowed us to begin implementing our plans. This space will soon serve as a model for youth training and community-led food production.”
The cooperative’s vision has already drawn attention and recognition, earning a Sustainable Development Award at the Bulawayo Business Awards for promoting clean energy, value addition, and youth empowerment through agriculture.
Ward 17 Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo applauded the initiative:
“This project gives our youth hope and direction at a time when drug and substance abuse is destroying lives. Deep Plough is showing that organised young people can lead meaningful change.”
Hauling Quarry’s involvement highlights the importance of private-sector partnerships in driving local development. The company, known for its consistent community engagement, provided practical assistance that enabled the cooperative to move from concept to groundwork.
The Deep Plough Mushroom and Drying Project aligns closely with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), particularly its focus on youth empowerment, value addition, and sustainable livelihoods. By teaching young people to grow and process food locally, the cooperative aims to build resilience, create jobs, and contribute to national food security.
With the land now cleared and preliminary training underway, Deep Plough is preparing to begin construction of its mushroom production cabins and install solar dryers. The cooperative also plans to pilot small-scale market sales, creating income-generating opportunities for trained youths.
“Our vision is to grow food, but also to grow people,” Ncube said. “This partnership proves that when youth, community, and business work together, transformation is possible.”
The story of Deep Plough is one of vision, innovation, and collaboration demonstrating how determination and partnership can turn forgotten spaces into centres of opportunity.
