The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S largest food manufacturer, National Foods Limited, has invested US$30 000 towards youths’ empowerment through a new egg layer production initiative.
The programme is expected to benefit at least 1 500 youths.
Under the programme, which is dubbed “A-Life-A-Day” (ALAD), the manufacturer, in partnership with the Community Foundation for the Western Region of Zimbabwe, is distributing hens for free in support of Government’s goals of promoting long-term health and food security.
National Foods group chief executive officer Mr Mike Lashbrook said the future of the country was in investing in youths.
“Our business has been built on the hard work and dedication of Zimbabweans over many decades,” he said.
“We believe we have a responsibility to invest in future generations by providing skills and opportunities for youths to reach their full potential.
“The A-Life-A-Day programme is one way we are working to build a pipeline of talent and support entrepreneurship, which will benefit communities and the broader economy.”
Director for the ALAD programme at the Community Foundation for the Western Region of Zimbabwe, Ms Sithabile Ndlovu, said youths must be given a chance to lead national business transformation.
“We want to see youths taking charge of their own development through deliberate actions that will transform their lives and livelihoods,” said Ms Ndlovu.
“This partnership with National Foods will catalyse opportunities for self-employment, income generation and poverty reduction for many families.”
The programme aims to empower youths through skills training, education, and small business development.
The first phase of the bi-annual programme has seen National Foods providing resources, including 1 000 laying hens for youth in the Ndiweni community in Matabeleland South.
