Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
THE Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has launched the Best Extension Worker Award (BEWA) to honour, motivate and enhance the performance of agricultural extension officers.
The awards were inaugurated at Banket Sports Club in Mashonaland West Province recently, with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, officiating at the ceremony.
A local agro-chemical dealer, Shumba Group, is sponsoring the awards.
Prof Jiri said the awards will promote excellence and accountability within the extension system. “Extension officers are the bridge between research and the farmer, and their performance directly impacts production,” he said.
“With the tools and resources we have provided, we expect them to go the extra mile.”
The overarching goal, he stated, is to ensure food security by increasing productivity per hectare, achievable only if farmers receive timely support.
Zimbabwe’s drive towards food self-sufficiency is progressing well, with the empowerment of extension officers being crucial for ensuring farmers receive the knowledge and assistance they need.
Extension officers welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to motivate them in their daily operations.
The Government has been equipping the officers with motorbikes, mobile tablets and solar kits, alongside capacity-building programmes that enable them to reach more farmers with timely advice and support.
An extension worker from Makonde, Mr Mushambi Tigere, said he was optimistic the awards would motivate them to push beyond their limits.
“They unlock personal skills and spur competition among us, but ultimately, the farmers are the winners,” said Mr Tigere.
Mrs Nyasha Gonde from Mhondoro-Ngezi district praised the Government’s support.
“We are grateful for the assistance we receive. With motorbikes, we have overcome mobility challenges and the tablets have improved our communication.
“We now receive timely updates on current trends, complemented by capacity-building workshops,” she said.
Extension officer Mr Farai Maigurira from Mhangura, noted that the initiative would lead to exceptional performance among them.
The launch was also attended by provincial directors from rural areas across the country, with Masvingo provincial director, Mr Caleb Mahoya, highlighting the impact of the capacitation drive.
“Before this initiative, many of our officers were limited in their coverage due to a lack of transport and equipment.
“Now, with motorbikes and tablets, they can reach more farmers in remote areas, provide real-time technical advice, and send reports instantly. This has greatly improved farmer engagement and the adoption of recommended farming practices,” he said.
