Online Reporter
Post Reporter
THE Nicaraguan Ambassador, Her Excellency Cuthbert Nadeska this morning met with Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza to explore areas of cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the agricultural sector.
Ambassador Nadeska said her country shares similarities with Zimbabwe, especially with Manicaland, such that the two countries should utilise their existing cordial relations to promote trade.
“Nicaragua and Zimbabwe share similar historical backgrounds. We have heard a great deal about Manicaland, and we are eager to explore opportunities for cooperation. Nicaragua is 46 years old, and Zimbabwe is 45 years old – we share a common struggle for independence. Our primary objectives are to eradicate poverty and ensure food security.
“We can learn from each other, share technologies and best practices. We used to import 50 percent of our food requirements, but now we produce 90 percent of it. We have a strong agricultural sector, particularly in beef, coffee, sugar, tobacco, sesame seeds, avocados, fruits, and beans. We export to more than 50 countries. We expect to establish exchange programmes between our farmers and those from Zimbabwe,” she said.
Minister Mugadza said Zimbabwe is open to collaborating with Nicaragua to improve crop production.
“Manicaland produces a significant amount of horticultural produce – bananas, avocados, macadamia nuts, and tea, among others. In the avocado subsector, we now have companies involved in value addition. We are looking forward to establishing twinning arrangements between Manicaland and provinces in other countries with similar characteristics. Our irrigation potential is substantial, with major dams and perennial rivers that enable us to farm throughout the year,” said Minister Mugadza.
Ambassador Nadeska’s visit follows the recent visit of Vice President General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga to Nicaragua.
Ambassador Nadeska will visit Tanganda Estate (today), Matanuska (both in Chipinge) and coffee mills (Mutare) tomorrow.
