Online Reporter
Kudakwashe Mugari
Deputy National Editor
THE co-founder of South African empowerment organisation U Can Company, Mr Steve Carver, has described Zimbabwe as the premier investment destination for agricultural transformation in Africa.
He cited high levels of farmer enthusiasm and a robust extension officer network as key competitive advantages, with plans for national expansion linked to international fundraising of up to US$1 billion from institutional investors.
Speaking after a one-week extensive assessment of the country’s farming landscape, Mr Carver expressed confidence in the success of the US$15 million Zimbabwe National Livelihood Graduation Programme, which aims to transition over 100 000 smallholder farmers from aid dependency to bankable, commercial livelihoods.
Zimbabwean entrepreneur Mr David Munowenyu, in partnership with UCAN, structured an agricultural investment programme targeting smallholder farmers, in a move expected to boost productivity and expand the sector.
During his visit, Mr Carver said the visible productivity in farming hubs like Beatrice, where young farmers are leading the charge in high-value chains.
