Epworth Local Board building inspector Cagewell Muzangaza has transformed his farming passion into a profitable business.
Muzangaza, whose duties are mainly visiting construction sites to check on compliance with local authority building by-laws in the populous community of Epworth, has rediscovered his farming passion.
Although initially daunting, Muzangaza throws himself into the challenge with enthusiasm, applying the patience and analytical mind honed by years of building inspection to learn the natural rhythms of the earth.
Through trial and error and the support of a solid community, he converted the land that was lying idle for years into productive farmland, thereby finding a meaningful life in close contact with nature.
Muzangaza was increasingly feeling disconnected from nature.
His workday was spent studying blueprints, adhering to building codes, and shuffling through reams of paperwork, removing him from the open horizons and bodily enjoyment he craved.
Through years of hard work and determination he managed to procure a five-hectare piece of land in Goromonzi.
He said he lacked the know-how expertise in farming, which made him hesitant before taking the bull by its horns, thanks to his passion.
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“Since growing up I never fancied the idea of farming, not because I am lazy, but simply because I did not realise potential benefits of it,” Muzangaza said.
“I felt obliged to really contribute to the development of my country through feeding the nation, so I really felt challenged to bring Zimbabwe to its former glory of being the bread basket of Africa.
“Armed with an ample amount of determination, I began a campaign for change setting myself to farming using the same attentiveness I apply to building assessment,” he said.
Muzangaza said he studied local farming practices, learned about soil types, and experimented with different crops.
His initial attempts were not flawless as he fought against technical issues, inclement weather, and the physical labour involved in farming.
However, he did not abandon his efforts, aware of the flaws in his methods and making changes accordingly.
A network of neighbouring farmers in the areas provided moral support and motivation, exchanging information and know-how.
“Farming is not a walk in the park, it requires sheer determination, hard work and more importantly passion,” he said.
He grows a variety of vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees. Another section of the farm is where he grows oyster and button mushrooms on small pieces.
Mushrooms have since gained popularity in local cuisines and are a favourite to many as a delicacy and their overall health benefits.
The local market since lately has been flooded by genetically modified organs products that have the potential to cause health problems, which he says was a driving factor to him to provide a healthy alternative for consumption.
“Unlike many crops, mushrooms can be grown throughout the year, providing a consistent income source, they are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to diets,” said Muzangaza.
The building inspector, once hungry for order and structure, discovered a different sense of satisfaction in improving the food security of the nation
