malvernmugadzikwa
Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE has won the bid to host the next African Plant Breeders Association (APBA) Conference set for 2025.
APBA 2025 will be held in Victoria Falls.
The conference, which is expected to attract 300 scientists from across the continent, is meant to disseminate the latest knowledge and achievements in the field of agriculture, as well as enhance research and development for sustainable agriculture production systems in Africa.
Hosting the indaba will give Zimbabwe an opportunity to market the country as a destination of excellence for provision of research and training in plant breeding.
Kutsaga chief executive officer Dr Frank Magama, who is also the Zimbabwe Plant Breeders Association (ZPBA) president, said: “The award was in response to the strength of the bid we had submitted, which covered the activities and membership of the association.”
He said support from Government — particularly from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority — had contributed to the success of the bid.
Meanwhile, two scientists from Zimbabwe also received continental awards in recognition of their immense contribution towards plant breeding studies.
“In addition to the bid, our two great scientists from Zimbabwe — Professor Pangirayi Tongoona and Dr Rufaro Madakadze — received awards.
“Professor Tongoona was accorded an award for his outstanding contribution to training plant breeders in Africa, leadership and research, while Dr Madakadze was honoured for her significant role in establishing the APBA and her support for plant breeding training,” added Dr Magama.
Bongani Ndlovu