Ntombifikile Ncube transforms urban agriculture through hydroponics at her Bulawayo greenhouse operation. The 28-year-old entrepreneur established Dexter Rising Spirit Technologies after traditional farming methods proved expensive and labor-intensive. Her soil-free system grows plants using nutrient-enriched water solutions that require 90 percent less land and 80 percent less water than conventional methods. Ncube developed lettuce chips from surplus produce to address market limitations and create value-added products.
A $4,000 grant from Dutch organization SNV enabled greenhouse construction and equipment purchases for the startup venture. Zimbabwe's government promotes agricultural innovation through the Agricultural and Food Systems Transformation Strategy aligned with Vision 2030 objectives. The Second Republic emphasizes youth participation in farming through climate-smart technologies and modern agricultural practices. Government initiatives target young farmers through business units, presidential schemes, and comprehensive policies that integrate youth into agricultural value chains. Ncube plans to expand operations while training other young people in advanced farming techniques.
A $4,000 grant from Dutch organization SNV enabled greenhouse construction and equipment purchases for the startup venture. Zimbabwe's government promotes agricultural innovation through the Agricultural and Food Systems Transformation Strategy aligned with Vision 2030 objectives. The Second Republic emphasizes youth participation in farming through climate-smart technologies and modern agricultural practices. Government initiatives target young farmers through business units, presidential schemes, and comprehensive policies that integrate youth into agricultural value chains. Ncube plans to expand operations while training other young people in advanced farming techniques.
