For many youths in communities near the country’s border posts, migrating to neighbouring countries for employment has become the norm. For Mvikeli Defence Ndlovu, a youth in the Bambanani Irrigation Scheme adjacent rain fed area, remaining in his community and taking part in the bricklaying training provided by the Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Programme (SIRP), proved to be beneficial.

Narrating his story, Ndlovu said, “I heard that SIRP was offering some youth training in our community. There were different courses on offer but I chose bricklaying because I have a passion for construction. After the training we were given protective clothing such as work suits and safety shoes.

After the completion of the vocational training, I managed to get an employment contract from Foster Irrigation Contractors which was revitalizing Bambanani Irrigation Scheme. Together with the other members of staff, we managed to build a pump house, and this is how I’m currently earning a living. I am earning money which has helped me to buy various food and household items. ”