Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) has launched a community engagement programme in Makoni District, focusing on aquaculture and sorghum production to promote sustainable livelihoods, agricultural productivity and rural development.

The initiative brings together the University and local communities in a practical partnership aimed at strengthening food security, creating economic opportunities and equipping farmers with skills to support their livelihoods.

The launch meeting was led by the Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Upenyu Guyo, representing MSUAS management, accompanied by the University’s Innovation and AgroIndustrial Park Operations Manager, Mr Haukozi. The meeting brought together traditional leaders, including chiefs and headmen, Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) officers, and members of the local community who will participate in the programme.

A total of 30 farmers will benefit from the initiative, with 15 farmers participating in the aquaculture project and another 15 focusing on sorghum production. The programme has attracted significant participation from women and young people, reflecting its focus on inclusive community development and the empowerment of groups that play an important role in rural livelihoods.

Through the aquaculture project, participating farmers will be supported in developing fish production as a potential source of food, income and enterprise development. The sorghum project will focus on strengthening crop production and promoting a climate-resilient cereal that can contribute to household food security and agricultural diversification.

The involvement of traditional leaders and ARDA officers is expected to strengthen collaboration between the University, agricultural extension services and the community. Their participation will be important in mobilising farmers, providing technical guidance and ensuring that the projects respond to local needs and conditions.

The programme reflects MSUAS’s commitment to community engagement through practical, research-informed interventions that connect university expertise with the needs of surrounding communities. By working directly with farmers, the University seeks to promote the adoption of improved agricultural practices, strengthen local productive capacity and create opportunities for sustainable rural enterprise development.

The launch marks the beginning of a collaborative effort in which the University and the Makoni community will work together to translate agricultural knowledge into practical benefits. Through the aquaculture and sorghum projects, MSUAS aims to demonstrate how partnerships between higher education institutions and rural communities can contribute to inclusive development, food security and improved livelihoods.