12/12/2025
MUTANDALIKE YOUTHS TURN TO TOMATO FARMING TO TACKLE UNEMPLOYMENT
By Moono Moonje-journalist
Faced with unemployment, ten youths in Mutandalike Ward of Choma District have formed Atubeleke Amwi Group and turned to tomato farming, creating income, supporting their families, and gaining practical skills while learning to manage challenges such as market congestion and fluctuating prices.
Cephas Muleya, one of the farmers, says the project has provided him with a steady source of income and reduced dependency, managed to support his family and even buy two cows from the earnings of this venture.
Meanwhile, Brenda Mweemba, a local tomato trader at Makalanguzu Market in Choma, says the group has become a reliable supplier, which is helping stabilise prices and reduce the need to bring in produce from outside the district.
Atubeleke Amwi Tomato Growers Group Chairperson, Most Ndikiti, explains that the cooperative started the project after struggling to find formal employment and began with small contributions.
Mr Ndikiti says the cooperative has expanded to meet growing demand, but notes that the rising number of people planting tomatoes is creating market congestion and reducing prices, and he adds that the group is responding by exploring new buyers and improving crop planning to avoid oversupply.
Mutandalike West Farming Block Agricultural Extension Officer, Greesldah Hangoma says improved farming methods have increased yields while boosting the group’s competitiveness in local markets.
And Choma District Agriculture Coordinator-DACO, Martin Sikainga says the Mutandalike youth model has created practical income opportunities for young people and is helping them gain skills, confidence, and a sense of financial independence.
Mr Sikainga notes that addressing challenges such as limited storage and access to financing would make the initiative more sustainable and shows that organised youth groups can effectively tackle unemployment through innovative approaches.
© YG FM News
