Zimpapers Logo

Fildah Gwati

Strategic agricultural policies have become a magnet for foreign investors, lured by the Government’s commitment to revamping the sector through innovation and creating a favourable business environment.

This came out during a maize seed producers training workshop launched last week by the Ministry of Land, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF), seed producers and transfer of technology (TOT) extension agents. Maize grain producers from Mozambique, Somalia, Kenya and South Sudan embraced Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector and are eager to adopt innovative farming practices with some willing to invest in the country.

Recognising Zimbabwe’s agriculture achievements, regional investors have expressed their intent to collaborate and benefit from the country’s expertise and experience.

Initiatives have been proposed and implemented to facilitate knowledge transfer and technology sharing.

At the maize training programme, Somalia’s Centre for Social and Economic Transformation chief executive officer Dr Khalid Omar Ali said: “After spending time here I have recognised that Zimbabwe agriculture sector is more advanced than that of my country and I would like to invest here as it enhances practice of good agriculture activities due to its increased mechanisation and favourable climatic conditions.”

Somalia, with its vast agricultural potential, has witnessed years of hunger and famine plus conflict and instability, which have hampered its agricultural development. 

The investors now see Zimbabwe as a valuable partner in revitalising its farming sector. The exchange of expertise and the implementation of sustainable farming practices are expected to enhance productivity and increase food production in Africa.

Embracing Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is seen as a crucial step towards attracting investment, improving productivity, and transforming Mozambique into an agricultural hub within the region.

This was said by Fundo de Fomento Agrieiro, Fundo Publico (FAR-FP) extension agents from Mozambique Isac Materisso and Courage Alfredo Guanai who chipped in saying, “We aspire to replicate success in Zimbabwe commercial agriculture due to climate smart agriculture technique, Pfumvudza/Intwasa which helps turn subsistence farmers into small-scale farmers which helps to drive an increase in food security.

By leveraging Zimbabwe’s expertise in crop diversification and irrigation technologies these four countries aim to enhance their resilience to climate change and improve food security for their populace. 

To facilitate these collaborations, joint agricultural research programmes, training exchanges and investment forums are being established. 

These initiatives will enable the sharing of best practices, technological advancements, market insights and promoting sustainable agricultural development across the participating nations.

Zimbabwe agriculture sector has long been regarded as one of the most productive and resilient in Africa. 

Despite facing various challenges in recent years, including droughts and economic hiatus, the nation has managed to maintain a robust agricultural industry, contributing significantly to its gross domestic product (GDP) and ensuring food security for its citizens.