Staff Reporter

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to establish 3

5 000 Village Business Units (VBUs), a strategy aimed at strengthening rural resilience, improving food and nutrition security, and fostering income generation in communities across the country.

Announcing the plan, on December 4, 2024, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Professor Dr. Obert Jiri, highlighted the transformative potential of the VBUs, describing them as a cornerstone for rural development and industrialisation.

“These Village Business Units represent a robust resilience model, addressing both food and nutrition security and income generation. It is a step towards creating self-sufficient and thriving communities,” said Dr. Jiri.

Professor Jiri emphasised that the Ministry's efforts go beyond simply establishing the VBUs. 

The Permanent Secretary said that proper market research, stakeholder collaboration, and guidance are integral components of the strategy.

"The Ministry’s efforts go beyond merely establishing village business units. Its departments, along with other stakeholders, are committed to ensuring the success of these ventures through proper guidance and market research," he said.

This initiative is underpinned by a vision of rural industrialisation, with each village being developed into a hub of productivity and self-reliance.

"Rural development must be led by rural industrialisation. The trust we have under the banner of Rural Development is to develop each village so that it becomes self-sufficient in terms of food and nutrition," Dr. Jiri added.

The VBUs will act as centres for small-scale enterprises, including agriculture, food processing, and other income-generating activities. 

By empowering local entrepreneurs and creating jobs, the program aims to boost livelihoods and reduce dependence on external support.

“This is just the beginning of a transformative process. We are determined to see these communities thrive and become resilient to future challenges,” Dr. Jiri said, expressing confidence in the initiative’s success.

To ensure the VBUs thrive, the Ministry is collaborating with various stakeholders to provide essential infrastructure, training, and market access. 

The success of this initiative is expected to play a vital role in improving food security, promoting economic self-reliance, and uplifting rural communities. 

By fostering a robust rural economy, Government aims to lay the foundation for long-term resilience and growth.

With the roll-out of this ambitious program, the Ministry is setting a bold precedent for rural development, paving the way for a future where villages are not only self-sufficient but also integral contributors to the nation’s economy.