Jane Chikwature: Breaking Barriers in Horticulture

Patience Muchemwa- Senior Reporter

Jane Chikwature, a 46-year-old single mother, has built a thriving horticulture farming business, defying societal norms that often discourage women from pursuing agriculture.

Growing up in a farming family, she developed a deep connection with the land at an early age. However, it was in 2008, after becoming a single mother, that she turned to horticulture as a means of financial independence and empowerment.

"Horticulture is a vital industry that provides food, beautifies our surroundings, and supports local economies," she explains. While many women in her community hesitate to venture into farming, viewing it as a male-dominated field, she has fully embraced the industry.

"What sets me apart is my willingness to take on a field that most women in my community shy away from," she says.

To ensure productivity and sustainability, she employs innovative farming techniques such as mulching and drip irrigation. These methods help conserve water, suppress weeds, and maintain soil fertility. "Mulching and drip irrigation have been key strategies in my farming, allowing me to manage resources efficiently while improving crop yield," she notes.

Despite her success, Jane faces significant challenges, particularly in land preparation and security. "One of my biggest hurdles as a woman in agriculture is land preparation, which requires considerable manpower," she says. To overcome this, she hires workers for labour-intensive tasks. Security is another concern, as farms are often vulnerable to theft. "I have to hire security personnel to safeguard my produce and equipment," she adds.

Beyond securing her own livelihood, Jane has created employment opportunities for her family and the local community. "Horticulture has not only allowed me to sustain myself but has also become a family business," she says. The community benefits from her enterprise as she supplies fresh, nutritious produce consistently.

To market her products, she leverages social media, door-to-door sales, and local marketplaces. However, selling produce comes with challenges. "Market saturation sometimes makes it difficult to sell, as many farmers harvest similar crops at the same time," she explains. Additionally, late payments from buyers create cash flow difficulties. Despite these obstacles, she remains committed to improving and expanding her business.

Jane is passionate about encouraging more women to explore farming as a viable source of income. "I would advise young women to consider farming as a way to support their families. It’s accessible—even backyard farming can make a difference," she encourages.

Looking to the future, Jane has ambitious plans for growth. She aims to expand her farming operations and enter international markets. "My goal is to scale up my business and start exporting my products while creating employment opportunities for others," she shares.

Through resilience, innovation, and determination, she is not only transforming her own life but also making a meaningful impact in her community.

Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the boundless potential of women in agriculture.