SHADANI – Instead of engaging themselves in criminal activities, young kids from the remote Shadani Village near Tshilamba are taking advantage of the abundance of Mavhungo (wild granadilla) and they are selling the fruits to motorists along the Sibasa-Mutale road, to make some extra cash.

Shonisani Netshipise (15), who has been selling the fruits from early December, told Mirror: “Some people might think that we are playing, but this is a very serious initiative because we are making some cash that will assist us to buy school uniform and other basic needs. Our parents are working but we felt there are other things that we can buy on our own to make life easier. Many youths are in prison today because they engaged themselves in criminal activities. We vowed that we will never do crime and our job is very simple because we only go to the local mountain and pick the fruits freely.”

Lucky Sithole (13) said life has been easier for him since he started selling the fruit to the motorists.

“I can at least take a loaf of bread home and my parents are happy with my initiative. It is important to assist our parents because they are really working hard to raise us. We sell the fruit from as little as R1, but we are ready to give discount.”

The boys say they are concerned that the fruit is now becoming scarce and this has a negative impact on their business on a daily basis.

“Because the fruit only becomes available in summer, we make sure that we use this opportunity to the fullest.”

Mr Patrick Tshinwamukovho (32), a motorist who usually buys the fruit from the boys said: “I support these boys because they are not resorting to criminal activities. They are keeping themselves busy and at the same time equipping themselves with small business skills that will benefit them when they grow up. I hope other kids will learn from them.”