Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube, [email protected]
THE Second Republic under President Mnangagwa has invested heavily in agricultural education to equip farmers with knowledge and skills to modernise productivity in farming as the backbone of the country’s economy.
Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Cde Vangelis Peter Haritatos, said this in Victoria Falls yesterday while addressing various stakeholders including heads of Government departments, chief executives from private and private sector, and local authorities. He said his ministry was at the forefront of the transformative journey to oversee critical sectors that underpin national development.
In line with Vision 2030 ideals, he said a lot of work was being done on various areas such as agriculture and rural development, education and infrastructure. The ministry’s mandate covers strengthening agricultural productivity through research and extension services, mechanisation and infrastructure, enhancing agricultural educational and research services, sustainable resources management including environmental conservation and climate resilience, among others.
“It’s a vision that seeks to uplift the living standards of every Zimbabwean, drive sustainable economic growth, ensure food security and foster social cohesion,” he said. “Achieving these goals require the concerted efforts of all stakeholders with strategic institutions playing a pivotal role. “We are investing in agricultural education services to equip our farmers with the knowledge and skills needed for modern agriculture. This includes establishment of agricultural schools, farmer field schools and continuous education programmes.”
The Deputy Minister said Government was also enhancing agricultural research institutions to develop and disseminate innovative farming techniques. This includes precision agriculture, climate resilient crops and sustainable farming practices with education institutions being primed to foster research and innovation.
With climate change uncertainty, Government is committed to sustainable resource management, promoting sustainable farming and protecting natural ecosystems while moving farmers from rain-fed agriculture to climate smart irrigation development. Government has set a target of developing 500 000ha of irrigation development, 350 000ha of which will be for cereal crops in order to ensure that the country is food, nutrition, oil and fibre-secure.
Efforts are being made to develop rural infrastructure including road networks, electricity, and water supply to support agricultural activities and improve the quality of life in rural areas. “By bridging the gap between research and practice, we can ensure that our farmers have access to the latest advancements in agricultural technology,” said the Deputy Minister.
“Education and training on climate farming techniques are being prioritised to help farmers adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. “It is only with rural industrialisation that we truly transform the lives of each and every Zimbabwean, leaving no one and no place behind through value addition and beneficiation.
“We are implementing inclusive policies that ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for all particularly marginalised groups such as women and youth,” said Dep Minister Haritatos.-@ncubeleon
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