ZDDT Garden of the Year Awards: The Results Are Out

Above: Gladys and Green Gardens' awards.

Community spirit and dedication to sustainable agriculture took centre stage as community gardeners gathered to celebrate a year of hard work, growth, and resilience at the Garden of the Year Awards hosted by the Zimbabwe Development and Democracy Trust (ZDDT).

The event recognised gardens that demonstrated exceptional commitment to development, governance, teamwork, and innovation throughout 2025.

The awards highlighted inspiring achievements across the participating market gardens, showcasing how collective effort and strong leadership are transforming community gardens into vibrant centres of food production, cooperation, and local empowerment.

Community Market gardens were celebrated for their dedication and productivity during the Garden of the Year Awards hosted by the Zimbabwe Development and Democracy Trust (ZDDT), with philanthropist Mike Roche serving as guest of honour.

Winners of the Gardern of the Year award: Green Gardens Project Management Committee pose with Mike Roche (Sally Foundation) and Edward Chikwayi (ZDDT Agri-extension officer.)

The awards recognised the outstanding efforts of gardeners who have worked throughout 2025 to improve food production and strengthen teamwork and sustainable garden management.

The highlight of the event was the announcement of Sizinda Green Gardens as the Overall Garden of the Year, in recognition of the remarkable progress and commitment shown by its members.

Other market gardens were also recognised across several categories, celebrating excellence in governance, development, cleanliness, and financial management. Sizinda Green Gardens walked away with three major awards: Best Governance, Best Financial Management, and Overall Garden of the Year, reflecting the strong leadership and sound organisation demonstrated throughout the year.

Mike Roche Co-founder of Sally Foundation and ZDDT team pose for a happy picture at the Garden of the year 2025 prize giving ceremony.

Greenfield Garden was named second runner-up for its impressive development work, teamwork, and for independently drilling a new borehole to improve water access.

Kirimuva Garden received the award for the Cleanest Garden, while Hlanganani Garden was recognised for Best Development.

In addition, two gardeners from each participating garden were honoured as the best gardeners, selected by their committees for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to ensuring the success of their gardens.