malvernmugadzikwa
Theseus Shambare
YOUTHS constitute over 60 percent of the national population.
Because of this, they can be the driving force behind Zimbabwe’s transformation into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
Since the advent of the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa, young people have been at the forefront of Zimbabwe’s production efforts.
Some have turned small pieces of rural land into thriving enterprises, comparable to burgeoning business venture in the city.
As such, the Zimbabwean agricultural sector is set to celebrate the achievements of its young, innovative farmers at the 2024 Young Farmer Awards ceremony.
At the same event, journalists who would have stood head and shoulders above the rest are also set to be rewarded for their contribution to agricultural development in the country.
Scheduled for December 6 at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) arena, the event promises to be a highlight of the agricultural calendar.
Co-hosted by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training, the ceremony will recognize excellence in various agricultural fields.
“This year’s awards are a testament to the incredible work being done by young Zimbabwean farmers,” said Mr Nickros Kajengo, chief programmes coordinator for the Agriculture Youth Desk.
“Their innovation, resilience and dedication to sustainable agriculture is inspiring.”
Categories for the awards include best grain producer, best cash crop producer, best exporter, best organised youth groups in agriculture, best youth associations in agriculture, best practices in ICT and innovation in agriculture, best media coverage of agricultural news and best youth desk in Government.
“The winners of these awards will not only be recognised for their achievements but will also have the opportunity to participate in international exchange programmes,” Mr Kajengo said.
“We are currently coordinating trips to countries like South Korea, China, Rwanda and Uganda where young farmers can learn from their global peers.”
The Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) and the Zimbabwe Youth Council are actively involved in supporting the event and mobilising resources.
ZFU is also playing a key role in the adjudication process.
The 2024 Young Farmer Awards ceremony is expected to draw a large audience of farmers, Government officials, industry experts and the general public.
It is a testament to the growing importance of young people in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and a celebration of their contribution to the nation’s food security and economic growth.
Feedback: X@TheseusShambare
Online Reporter