My dear young farmer, I have seen many young men and women come and go in the world of farming. Starting a farm is not an easy task, especially in Zimbabwe right now. There are many challenges that you will face, but with the right attitude and determination, you can succeed.
While you may be feeling discouraged because that 10 hectare piece of land still remains unattended for any number reasons. It could be the lack of financial and human resources, unfavorable weather and climatic conditions. It may even be the lack of information and knowledge or just simply because of the inability to press the start button and get going. Just remember the hardest part of anything is getting started.
I am not going to pretend that being a farmer is a glorious profession that makes you feel good every single day. The reality is so far from this, the truth is this,” Imagine a long and seemingly endless list of things planned for a day, a list so long that someone might actually run out of steam just looking at it. Daily you are confronted with an almost impossible list if things to be done in a single day. Imagine a mountain of files lying about on the office floor and office desk, almost insurmountable.” This is life every day for a farmer. Just remember in a world where everything is moving at such insane speed people might tempted to think that it is only the big distances (as opposed to smaller distances) that matter. Half a loaf is better than nothing. Even so, moving an inch is better than not moving at all. Just work on one file at a time until that whole pile is done, kilometer by kilometer until one reaches their destination, a square meter or an acre at a time until that whole 10 hectare plot is done.
Like the saying goes, the journey of a thousand mile begins with a single step. In the mean time here are some tips to help you get started.
Firstly, you must understand that farming is a long-term investment. It takes time to build a successful farm, and you must be patient. You will face many obstacles along the way, such as unpredictable weather patterns, pests, and diseases. These challenges can be discouraging, but you must keep pushing forward.
Secondly, you must be prepared to work hard. Farming is not a 9-to-5 job, and there are no shortcuts. You must be willing to put in the long hours and backbreaking work to achieve success. You will need to be resourceful and innovative, constantly looking for new ways to improve your farm’s productivity.
Thirdly, you must be willing to learn. Farming is a complex and ever-changing industry, and there is always something new to learn. You must be open to new ideas and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. Surround yourself with knowledgeable people and seek their advice and guidance.
Finally, you must have a strong support system. Farming can be a lonely and isolating profession, and it is important to have people who understand and support you. Find like-minded individuals and build a community around you.
My dear young farmer, starting a farm is not for the faint of heart. But if you are willing to work hard, be patient, learn, and have a strong support system, you can succeed. The challenges that come with farming are not insurmountable, and with perseverance and determination, you can overcome them. Remember, farming is not just a job, it is a way of life. Embrace the challenges, and you will reap the rewards.
By Albert Makendenge