At 33, horticulturist Simon Masocha leads Luyando Projects, a youth-driven seedling nursery in Gweru. With over eight years of experience and a National Certificate in Horticulture, he operates from two leased sites where he produces high-quality vegetable seedlings using greenhouses, drip irrigation, and solar-powered systems.
Through ZADT’s support, Simon accessed a USD 3,500 loan from AFC Bank, which he used to purchase seedling trays, a solar pump, and essential inputs. This investment enabled him to scale production to about 280,000 seedlings per month- mainly cabbages, tomatoes, and leafy greens- generating roughly USD 7,000 monthly. His client base includes local farmers, agro-retailers, and institutions such as Midlands State University, which also contracts him for greenhouse and irrigation installations.
To diversify income and strengthen resilience, Simon is expanding into broiler production and offering greenhouse construction services. His business employs 15 workers, including two MSU students on attachment, and integrates environmentally friendly practices such as solar irrigation, organic substrate recycling, and water-efficient drip systems.Simon’s growth demonstrates how access to finance and sustainable technologies can empower youth to build high-impact agricultural enterprises that contribute both to local employment and climate-smart food production.