Online Reporter
Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE is set to enhance its agricultural productivity through a new fertiliser initiative supported by the African Development Bank and the Agricultural Financial Services Group.
The programme seeks to provide farmers with improved access to fertilisers, crucial for increasing crop yields and ensuring food security.
At a meeting on the sidelines of the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, Senegal, yesterday, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri discussed the upcoming initiative with AFDB representatives, including Coordinator Ms Marie Clare Kalihangabo and Programme Development Specialist Mr Noel Ujeneza.
The current AFDB-supported programme is expected to conclude in October 2025, after which a new agricultural product will be introduced to bolster farmers’ access to essential resources.
Ms Kalihangabo highlighted the importance of the fertiliser initiative to both commercial and small scale farmers.
“Farmers need access to critical resources to unlock their potential. Our new initiative will change the narrative for many,” she said.
The programme allows farmers to access fertilisers upfront, with the option to reimburse costs after the harvest, significantly alleviating financial pressure.
The initiative will facilitate the distribution of over 19 000 tonnes of fertiliser to commercial farmers, aiming to boost agricultural production in key regions.
Prof Jiri emphasised the programme’s significance to the country.
“We are committed to bridging the gap between farmers and the resources they need. With the right tools, our agricultural sector can thrive,”he said.
The AFSG’s involvement is expected to enhance fertiliser uptake, which has historically been low due to financial constraints faced by smallholder farmers.
The initiative aligns with the Government’s broader goals of improving food security and developing resilient farming practices in the face of climate change.
The programme also includes a flagship US$6 million project targeting Masvingo and Matabeleland South provinces, focusing on all Village Business Units (VBUs) and promoting commercial farming practices. Plans are already in motion to expand the VBU model to additional provinces.
“This is just the beginning. We envision a future where every farmer in Zimbabwe has the tools they need to succeed,”Prof Jiri stated, regarding the initiative’s potential impact.
The fertiliser initiative represents a critical step toward transforming Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape and ensuring sustainable food production for the nation.
Bongani Ndlovu