Roseline Mutare
Operators of Green Valley garden in Ward 4 of Masvingo City in Sisk are facing security challenges as the installed flood lights were stolen.
Despite their efforts to implement solar flood lights, the lights were stolen, leaving the area in the dark and vulnerable to thieves who steal their produce.
The chairperson of the Green Valley garden, Tacka Ruhukwa, expressed the community’s concerns.
“We are crying out for help from the local authority, we need assistance with installing secure lighting and frequent security patrols to protect our garden, we are trying to improve our lives through gardening, but it is impossible without a safe environment,” said Ruhukwa.
During a recent visit to the garden, the Mayor of Masvingo City, who is the ward councillor Aleck Tabe commended the garden committee for their initiative and hard work and assured them that he is working tirelessly with other authorities from the council to ensure the garden is protected and secure.
“We will allocate funds for a security fence and deploy a security guard from the city council to enhance security in the area,” said the Mayor.
Masvingo Urban MP, Martin Mureri, also visited the garden and pledged to address the concerns immediately.
“We want to ensure that the residents of this ward can live without fear and improve their lives through gardening, We will not only focus on addressing the security concerns but also encourage the residents to view gardening as a business opportunity, not just a means of subsistence,” said Mureri.
The MP added that the residents should focus on both planting vegetables for consumption and exploring the business side of gardening to improve their livelihoods.
