The project, funded by Tekeshe Foundation, was launched in March with 20 women and five men in the initial phase and an additional 50 to be added later in the year.
Constance Munjokodi, one of the beneficiaries, said the community was looking forward to harvesting the first mushrooms in three weeks.
Another beneficiary, Sibusisiwe Dube, said the community would benefit in more ways than one, as mushrooms were high in nutrients and would contribute to the health and diet of locals. Mushrooms contain many nutrients more commonly found in meat, beans and grains.
They are also low in calories, fat and cholesterol and provide important dietary requirements such asselenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin and Vitamin D.
The project was a first of its kind in the area and the villagers are keen to support it. “We cannot even wait for the first mushrooms – we are putting all our effort towards its success,” said Obert Mutetwa.
Tekeshe Foundation Coordinator, Charity Mutseyami,said the project was just one of many her organisation is initiating in Rimbi. “In 2010 we donated an ambulance at the local clinic, we are paying school fees for schoolchildren and have donated clothes, uniforms and text books to school children,” she said.
Post published in: Environment